Moloi's suspension, new CEO, Soweto Marathon saga & unsanctioned races - ASA Acting President John Mathane speaks

Athletics South Africa acting president John Mathane has confirmed that president James Moloi remains suspended pending the outcome of an internal investigation, with the federation moving to appoint senior counsel for a disciplinary hearing. Moloi was suspended last year over allegations of misusing the federation’s credit card for personal expenses, including alcohol and fast food. Mathane said ASA is working closely with the Department of Sport, Arts and Culture and South African Sports Confederation and Olympic Committee (SASCOC) to ensure due process is followed, adding that he expects the matter to be finalised by the end of the month.

"We are still sitting with what we have. Currently, the status quo of the suspension of president Moloi still stands. We are also concerned as the athletics community because it has taken long. But we need to understand there are processes to be followed and issues we do not want to see being litigated," said Mathane.

Mathane (right) says ASA are dealing with a number of governance issues. Photo Credit: Cecila van Bers/ASA.

Mathane was speaking at a media briefing on May 8 at Southern Sun Rosebank, where he outlined the state of athletics in the country. Key concerns included governance challenges within ASA, the non-payment of winners from the Soweto Marathon, and the rise of unsanctioned races. As part of a reform drive, ASA plans to appoint a permanent CEO and an internal bookkeeper to strengthen governance and ensure compliance. The federation will also establish an independent ethics committee aimed at enforcing accountability, restoring credibility, and reinforcing disciplinary processes.

"Misconduct will be addressed swiftly, fairly and decisively. We cannot rebuild athletics through division. We cannot rebuild athletics through personal battles or public hostility. We will rebuild athletics with unity, discipline, accountability and leadership," Mathane said.

Suspended ASA President James Moloi (centre) with the rest of the board after their election in May 2025. Photo Credit: ASA Media.

Turning to the Soweto Marathon, Mathane described the race as a national treasure that must be protected. His comments follow remarks by Sports Minister Gayton McKenzie about a potential government takeover of the event — a move that has raised concerns about political interference.

"We are going to engage with government for guidance. We will also engage with Central Gauteng Athletics. The Soweto Marathon falls within the magisterial district of CGA, and we cannot deviate from its processes. CGA understands the rules and regulations," he said. "We will sit down with government to align. Their intentions may be good, but federation processes must be respected. We are here to support initiatives that are in the best interest of the sport."

Mathane added that he would request McKenzie's intervention in the ongoing Mpumalanga Marathon dispute. Addressing the proliferation of unsanctioned races, Mathane struck a firm tone, warning that ASA will clamp down on rogue events.

"It harms our sport. The unlawful collection of entry fees from athletes by these individuals is something of the past — we are going to correct it. This conduct is unacceptable. It undermines ASA's authority, compromises athlete welfare, weakens event safety standards, and damages the integrity of the sport."