Danny Jordaan, South African Football Association President, Arrested on Fraud Charges

Danny Jordaan, the President of the South African Football Association (SAFA), has been arrested and charged with fraud and theft. The arrest follows an investigation into the alleged misuse of funds during South Africa's bid for the 2010 FIFA World Cup.

Jordaan was taken into custody on Wednesday, October 20, 2021, and appeared in court the following day. He has been charged with racketeering, corruption, fraud, and theft, along with two other former SAFA officials.

The charges relate to the alleged misuse of R1.3 million ($88,000) in public funds during the 2010 World Cup bid process. Jordaan has denied any wrongdoing and has stated that he is confident he will be cleared of the charges.

The arrest of Jordaan is the latest in a series of high-profile corruption scandals to hit South African football. In 2018, former SAFA president Kirsten Nematandani was arrested and charged with fraud and money laundering. Nematandani later pleaded guilty to the charges and was sentenced to a suspended prison term.

The corruption scandals have tarnished the reputation of South African football and have led to calls for the resignation of Jordaan and other SAFA officials. FIFA, the world governing body for football, has also opened an investigation into the allegations of corruption.

The arrest of Jordaan is a significant development in the ongoing corruption probe. It is likely to lead to further investigations and could result in additional arrests and charges. The outcome of the case will have implications for the future of South African football and for Jordaan himself.