How do we lodge a protest or complaint, and what does it cost?
Rule- South Africa
- SAFA
- Local Football Association
- Hollywoodbets Men's Regional League
- Sasol Women's League
- Senior
- SAFA Uniform Rules
- 2026/27
- Club administrators
SAFA Competitions Uniform Rules 17-20 set five dispute processes, each with a fee:
| Process | Regional Leagues and Junior Football Leagues | Provincial Leagues |
|---|---|---|
| Protest | R5 000 | R10 000 |
| Complaint | R2 000 | R5 000 |
| Dispute resolution | R3 500 | R10 000 |
| Appeal | R5 000 | R15 000 |
| Arbitration | R10 000 | R30 000 |
Protest (a team that played in the match):
- About an ineligible opposition player: object in writing on the team sheet before kick-off, handed to the referee with the senior assistant referee present and countersigned by the opposing captain.
- About other breaches: in writing to the referee in the same way, immediately before kick-off or before the final whistle.
- Then lodge the written protest and fee within 48 hours (working days), giving the full facts and the rule broken.
Complaint (anyone in SAFA membership, about any misconduct): in writing with the fee within 7 days of the incident. Sanctions on a complaint are limited, for example to fines of up to R20 000.
Dispute (a club and player over registration, transfer or contract): written notice with the fee to the relevant SAFA official; heard by the .
Added 22 Oct 2026