PSL Decides Hosting Rights, Not Sponsor, Confirms MTN
Contrary to popular belief that sponsors dictate host venues, MTN has clarified that the Premier Soccer League (PSL) ultimately determines the location of the MTN8 final.
MTN General Manager for Brand and Marketing, Kholofelo Magagane, confirmed the decision-making process during a media event at Moses Mabhida Stadium on Wednesday. The iconic Durban venue will host the 2026/27 showpiece on Saturday night as Orlando Pirates lock horns with Mamelodi Sundowns.
Saturday’s spectacle marks the 11th time Moses Mabhida Stadium will host the MTN8 final—far more than any other venue since its opening following the 2010 FIFA World Cup. Remarkably, the Durban stadium will host the Wafa Wafa final for the sixth time in the last seven seasons.
The venue’s continued dominance has sparked criticism from supporters in other regions, with fans questioning why Durban consistently secures the rights to host the tournament showpiece. However, Magagane dispelled long-standing assumptions that commercial sponsors influence venue selection.
“It has been a good journey, 18 years with the PSL,” said Magagane when asked to reflect on the partnership, which began in the 2008/09 season.
“I think at the centre of that, it is the impact that we can make in the communities. You will recall that, even this one coming up, we always have the Last Fan Standing…
“In terms of the final being in Durban, actually, the decision on that, it is always resting with the PSL. We are always appreciative of wherever the PSL takes the game; we go there, and we bring the sea of yellow.
“But the probability of going to the same place 11 times — only the PSL will know better in terms of that and the advantages of bringing it to such a venue. But we are always appreciative of that.
“We always come in and support and bring the sea of yellow.”
