In a move that has caught South African football fans by surprise, Durban City FC have provided clarity on their decision to part ways with head coach Sinethemba Badela.
The club confirmed the exit was a mutual agreement, effective immediately, despite Badela’s significant role in reshaping the team’s tactical identity. This comes after a few hours; FARPost broke the news on Monday morning.
Badela stepped into the role in December 2025, succeeding veteran coach Gavin Hunt. He joined the club following his departure from Chippa United earlier that year.
According to the club’s official statement released on Monday afternoon, the parting of ways wasn’t triggered by poor performance or a lack of professionalism. Instead, it was the result of a strategic misalignment regarding time.
The KZN outfit went on to reveal that an internal review concluded that while Badela’s modern footballing philosophy was the right long-term fit, the “immediate competitive demands” of the current season required a different approach.
Having taken charge in three games, of which he managed to win two and lost one, the club was careful to highlight that Badela’s tenure was far from a failure.
His tenure at Durban City began with a narrow 1-0 win over Polokwane City FC at Chatsworth Stadium in January. While he suffered a 2-0 setback in the Betway Premiership against his former employers, Chippa, he quickly exacted revenge. Just days later, he led his side to a dramatic penalty shootout [3-2] victory over the Chilli Boys in the Nedbank Cup Last 32.
The club’s hierarchy insists that they remain committed to building a “proudly Durban football institution,” with the side expected to announce an interim coaching structure and provide an update on the recruitment process for a new head coach in due course.
DURBAN CITY FC’S OFFICIAL STATEMENT
“Durban City FC confirms that the club has mutually agreed to part ways with head coach Sinethemba Badela, with immediate effect,” reads the club’s statement.
“This decision is not a reflection of match results, nor does it detract from the professionalism, dedication, and commitment demonstrated by coach Badela during his tenure. The club acknowledges and sincerely appreciates his contribution, particularly his role in introducing a modern footballing philosophy and cultivating a strong, values-driven culture within the squad. His approach was aligned with the club’s long-term vision and developmental objectives.
“Following a comprehensive internal review, the club concluded that the time required to fully embed this philosophy was not compatible with the immediate competitive demands of the current campaign. With thirteen critical fixtures remaining in the season, the environment requires a level of experience, operational readiness, and short-term stability to navigate the pressures both on and off the pitch.
“Durban City FC extends its sincere gratitude to coach Badela for his professionalism and contribution and wishes him every success in his future endeavours.
“The club will communicate interim coaching arrangements and the process regarding the appointment of a new head coach in due course.
“Durban City FC thanks its supporters, partners, and the wider Durban football community for their continued loyalty, patience, and belief in the club’s direction. The club remains fully committed to building a strong, competitive, and proudly Durban football institution.”
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