Motaung addresses Chiefs’ stance on disputed CT Spurs duo

Kaizer Chiefs’ marketing and commercial director, Jessica Motaung, has weighed in on the ongoing dispute with Cape Town Spurs regarding the reported signings of CT Spurs captain, Asanele Velebayi, and midfielder, Luke Baartman.

CT Spurs are prepared to defend their position, asserting that both players remain under contract despite their recent relegation from the Betway Premiership.

Velebayi and Baartman reportedly signed with Chiefs as free agents shortly after Spurs’ relegation. In a similar vein, AmaZulu also acquired Liam Bern, believing his club was now in the amateur ranks following relegation from the Motsepe Foundation Championship. However, Cape Town Spurs maintains the players’ contracts are still valid and has instructed them to return to training, even pursuing legal action against them.

The future of Velebayi and Baartman, whom Amakhosi sees as valuable long-term additions, will be decided this week. Virtual hearings are scheduled where Spurs, the players, and their representatives will present their arguments before the Dispute Resolution Chamber (DRC), which will then deliver a ruling.

Chiefs are set to kick off their new season on August 10th with an away match against Stellenbosch FC.

Speaking to journalists on Monday in Naturena, Johannesburg, Motaung outlined Kaizer Chiefs’ commitment to proper procedures and avoiding interference with other clubs.

“I think what’s important is that we are in the business of doing things in a way that’s not going to interfere with other clubs,” Motaung stated. “We want to follow certain procedures, and that relates to any other players that we’re looking at. We’re taking a very professional approach to integrating and bringing players into the team.”

She emphasised that the club will only make official announcements when appropriate. “We’ll ensure that we only make announcements when the time is right. So, watch the space,” she advised.

Motaung further clarified Chiefs’ policy: “We can’t be engaging players who are still with teams or are still contracted.” She acknowledged that a “process” is underway, after which an announcement would be made, hinting that Chiefs are waiting for the DRC’s decision before making any definitive statements.