Gayton McKenzie issues statement on the running of sports federations

Following backlash directed at the Department of Sport, Arts and Culture over decorated swimmer Tatjana Smith’s decision to represent the Netherlands, Minister Gayton McKenzie released a statement wishing her well in her future endeavours.

He also used the statement to clarify how sports federations, such as Swimming South Africa, operate and explain the government’s role in their affairs.

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Gayton McKenzie breaks down sports funding

In the media statement, McKenzie took a moment to explain to South African citizens how sports federations actually work.

“The public needs to understand how sports are run in South Africa. National Federations are deliberately independent of government. They are governed by their own boards and answer to their international bodies. Where the department funds a federation, the federation must account for that money. But the department does not run federations and cannot take on all of their costs,” he explained.

After breaking down how the government and national sports federation are actually aligned, the minister highlighted that sports federations carry the responsibility of running their affairs sustainably. This includes attracting partners and sponsors who can help carry costs such as competing internationally.

“SA Rugby does not ask the department to pay for the Springboks to play overseas, even though it needs billions of rands each year to run their sport,” he explained.

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— Gayton McKenzie (@GaytonMcK) November 11, 2026

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Efforts are being made

Through this explanation, the minister then assured citizens that the issues being faced by Swimming South Africa are in the process of being handled.

“The department is aware of the problems at Swimming South Africa, including concerns athletes have raised. These problems are being dealt with through a reform process that is underway and includes oversight from World Aquatics,” he assured.

Gayton McKenzie wishes Tatjana Smith well

McKenzie also clarified that the decision that Smith took was a deeply personal one and urged that it shouldn’t be turned into a political weapon, stating:

“It is regrettable that some people have used a deeply personal decision made by one of South Africa’s most loved athletes to attack the minister. Tajana’s choice belongs to her and shouldn’t be used as a political weapon.”

However, through it all, the minister wishes the decorated Olympian future success.

Featured image: X/GaytonMcK

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