Durban officials dismiss MTN8 ticket sales allegations

According to Sportswire, the allegations have resurfaced ahead of next Saturday's MTN8 final between Orlando Pirates and Mamelodi Sundowns at Moses Mabhida Stadium.

The iconic Durban venue will host the MTN8 final for the 11th time, with thousands of football supporters expected to descend on the city for the clash between two of South Africa's biggest clubs.

Similar concerns were raised by local supporters during last season's Nedbank Cup final between Pirates and Kaizer Chiefs, with claims that out-of-province fans were being prioritised because of the potential impact on hotel bookings and tourism.

However, eThekwini Mayor Cyril Xaba has rejected the allegations.

"These are just allegations," said Xaba.

City Manager Musa Mbele also questioned how the municipality could influence the process when supporters purchase tickets online.

"It is an allegation because these tickets are sold online," said Mbele. "How do you see if this person is from KZN or not from KZN when they buy tickets online?"

Mbele stressed that tickets are handled by the Premier Soccer League and sponsors on a first-come, first-served basis, making it difficult to determine the geographical background of buyers during the online purchasing process.

He also insisted that Durban is not dependent on major sporting events to create tourism demand.

"We are not desperate to boost tourism to such an extent that we can do unethical things like that," he said.

Mbele believes the city's established tourism appeal is one of the reasons major sporting events continue to thrive in Durban.

"We are a tourist destination by choice," he said.

He pointed to Durban's beaches, accommodation establishments and other attractions, while highlighting the atmosphere created when major football matches are staged at Moses Mabhida Stadium.

"As a result, we are very attractive without paying a cent. It is nice to be in Durban," Mbele said.