eThekwini Mayor Cyril Xaba and City Manager Musa Mbele have emphatically rebutted allegations regarding the sale of MTN8 final tickets to fans outside KwaZulu-Natal, asserting that their commitment to the region as a premier tourism destination remains steadfast.
As the city gears up to host its 11th MTN8 final next Saturday at the iconic Moses Mabhida Stadium, excitement among local fans is palpable. This year's final features a thrilling matchup between two of South Africa's most storied football clubs, Orlando Pirates and Mamelodi Sundowns. However, amid the anticipation, allegations surfaced claiming that ticket allocations favor out-of-province buyers, allegedly designed to enhance the tourism economy in Durban.
These claims echo frustrations expressed during the recent 2024/25 Nedbank Cup final, where local supporters accused the organizers of prioritizing ticket sales to individuals from outside the province. Mayor Xaba was quick to dispel these notions on the basis that ticket sales are managed by the Premier Soccer League (PSL) exclusively, utilizing a first-come, first-served system.
“These are just allegations,” said Xaba, defending the integrity of the ticket sales process.
The emphasis on transparency and fairness reverberated through the statements of City Manager Mbele, who insisted that any claims regarding ticket sales have no foundation. He pointed out that the nature of online purchasing complicates any attempt to discern the geographical location of ticket buyers.
“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 continued by pointing out the city's robust appeal as a tourist destination without resorting to unethical ticket selling practices.
“We are not – I may sound arrogant, but it is the only way I can express it – we are not desperate to boost tourism to such an extent that we can do unethical things like that,” stated Mbele. “We are big, if not one of the biggest tourist destinations in the country. People are coming easily because they love Durban.”
This sentiment reflects a broader narrative of pride in Durban, where the vibrant culture, stunning beaches, and rich heritage draw visitors from various demographics. “People just love Durban. If you want to enjoy, come to Durban,” Mbele added, invoking nostalgia associated with local music that celebrates the city. He observed that the city's reputation has only been enhanced through strategic initiatives undertaken under the current leadership.
“What we have done under the leadership of the mayor is ensure that we improve that brand,” said Mbele, emphasizing the city’s proactive approach in keeping its tourism profile high.
Mbele cited the fact that significant events hosted in Durban draw attention not just for the events themselves, but for the unforgettable experience they promise. He elucidated that visitors flock to the city not due to extravagant marketing or manipulative practices, but because of the “electric atmosphere” inherently present in Durban.
“We don’t do anything like paying for matches [cup finals]; people just love Durban because of the electric atmosphere that they find here,” Mbele affirmed, reinforcing the idea that authentic experiences are paramount to the allure of the city.
To further underline this point, Mbele highlighted that the city boasts a plethora of accommodations and attractions, which all contribute to Durban’s status as a prime destination. “The MTN representatives know that they are likely to do well in marketing their brand because we are one of the three biggest metros when it comes to accommodation establishments,” he remarked.
Durban’s reputation has indeed seen a significant boost in recent years, with attractions that cater to various interests, from its sun-drenched beaches to cultural festivals celebrating Zulu heritage. The philosophical essence of Ubuntu – a traditional African philosophy emphasizing community, humanity, and mutual caring – resonates within the city, contributing to its charm.
“So, there is no need for us to pay, except to produce what we have,” Mbele asserted. “It is nice to be in Durban.”
Durban ICC Nomination Flights Tourism Hopes
In an unrelated yet significant development, the Inkosi Albert Luthuli International Convention Centre (Durban ICC) has garnered international recognition by being nominated for the World Sustainable Travel and Hospitality Awards 2026, under the category of World’s Leading Sustainable Organisation. This honor follows the convention center’s impressive achievement of securing Africa’s Leading Meetings and Conference Centre title for the 21st time at the World Travel Awards earlier this year.
The nomination serves as a timely reminder of Durban’s growing reputation not just in sports tourism but also in sustainable practices within the hospitality and events sectors. With major events on the horizon, including conferences and exhibitions, the Durban ICC is set to play a significant role in shaping the city’s future as a hub for international gatherings.
With the ongoing discussions surrounding ticket sales and tourism ethics, the excitement for the upcoming MTN8 final continues to grow, reaffirming a collective aspiration among local and visiting fans alike: to witness an unforgettable sporting spectacle in a city that proudly embraces its heritage and vibrant community.
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