However, the state says it has always been ready for trial.
The fraud and theft case against South African Football Association (Safa) president Danny Jordan and four co-accused has once again stalled, amid defense claims of unreasonable delays – even though the state says it is ready for trial and is determined to proceed with charges worth more than R1 million.
Jordan, Safa's former chief financial officer (CFO), Groen Hluyo, former journalist and director of Grit Communications, Trevor Neethling, his unit Grit Communications and former acting Safa CEO Russell Paul appeared before the Johannesburg Specialized Commercial Crimes Court on Monday, 25 May 2026.
adjournment
The case has been postponed till August 27, 2026.
National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) spokesperson Mgboke Mohlatole said the purpose of the adjournment was to allow the defense to file a response to the Heads of State's argument in relation to the defense application, which alleges the state is unreasonably delaying the finalization of the case.
“However, the State maintains that it has always been prepared for the trial and has submitted that it is ready to proceed to the hearing of the application.”
charge
The trio face multiple charges, including fraud, theft, and conspiracy to commit fraud and theft exceeding R1 million.
The state alleges that in December 2017, Jordan unlawfully signed and backdated a service level agreement between Safa and Grit Communications for public relations and communications services.
The agreement was reportedly not approved through proper SAFA processes and was reportedly intended to protect Jordan's personal image.
Jordan
Jordan is also accused of purchasing security services for personal use under the guise of SAFA business.
It is further alleged that Hluyo authorized payments to Grit Communications and a security company despite knowing that the agreements were unauthorized and illegal.
collusion
Paul allegedly colluded and conspired with the other four accused in the commission of fraud and theft relating to the illegal 2018 service level agreement between SAFA and Grit Communications.
Jordan, Hluyo and Neethling were arrested in November 2024 And are currently out on bail of Rs 20,000 each.
With Safa's elected congress scheduled for September 2026 and Jordan declaring for years that he would not seek re-election, the football boss could be eyeing a fourth term as president of the football body. But this means that he will be tried for the top post during the elections.
The NPA said it is committed to ensuring accountability and will continue efforts to finalize the case before the court.