As the highly anticipated 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup approaches, details regarding the earnings of each Banyana Banyana player have been disclosed.
Banyana Banyana to receive near-million cash prize, thanks to Patrice Motsepe
The South African national women’s team is set to embark on their journey to New Zealand, following the resolution of a dispute concerning gender pay gaps within the country.
The Motsepe Foundation, established by Patrice Motsepe, the president of the Confederation of African Football (CAF), and his wife Precious Motsepe, played a pivotal role in resolving the disagreement.
The foundation committed funds to address the issue, which arose when squad members realised that their contracts did not include the promised $30 000 (equivalent to approximately R560 000) appearance fee from FIFA, allocated to each of the 23 players.
The dispute shed light on the persisting gender pay gaps in South African sports, prompting a renewed conversation around equality.
During a press conference held in Johannesburg, Precious Motsepe emphasised the need to move beyond mere rhetoric and take concrete action to achieve gender equality.
She stated:
“This moment is about us paying lip-service when it comes to gender equality… It takes every single one of us to ensure gender equality becomes a reality.”
In an announcement made during the press briefing, the South African Football Players Union revealed that in addition to the FIFA fee, each player would receive a bonus of R230 000, taking the total earnings to R790 000.
This bonus serves as a gesture of appreciation for their dedication and commitment to the national team, Motsepe highlighted.
Banyana Banyana match schedule at 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup
Addressing the conference, sports minister Zizi Kodwa expressed his support for the players, emphasizing the importance of advocating for gender equality in sports.
He asserted that the Banyana Banyana squad deserves the same recognition and rewards as their male counterparts in Bafana Bafana, the senior men’s national team, and the Springboks.
The 2023 Women’s World Cup, co-hosted by Australia and New Zealand, is set to commence on July 20. South Africa, the reigning African champions, will represent the continent alongside Morocco, Nigeria, and Zambia.
Here’s the Banyana Banyana match schedule for the 2023 FIFA World Cup:
DATE | MATCH | STADIUM | TIME |
Sunday 23 July 2023 | Sweden v South Africa | Wellington Regional Stadium | 07:00 CAT |
Friday 28 July 2023 | Argentina v South Africa | Dunedin Stadium | 02:00 CAT |
Wednesday 2 August 2023 | South Africa v Italy | Wellington Regional Stadium | 09:00 CAT |