Extra Shifts, Extra Work, But Where Is the Money?
Indigenous-language SuperSport CANAL+ commentators say they are still waiting to be paid for additional shifts worked during the 2026 FIFA World Cup, raising questions about how the broadcaster treats its vernacular talent.
The commentators, who have built a strong following through isiZulu, Sesotho and Setswana commentary, say they accepted additional matches on the understanding that they would receive extra income.
The dispute comes amid reports that Bafana Bafana players were also still waiting for World Cup bonuses, despite South Africa reaching the Round of 32. SAFA attributed the delay to tax and regulatory complexities linked to matches played in the United States and Mexico.
According to a source at SuperSport’s Randburg headquarters, the indigenous-language commentators worked more than 10 additional matches under an arrangement known as the “Extra Shift” programme.
The vernacular commentary team includes Zama “ZZ” Masondo, Reggie “Mapensela” Ndlovu, Phumlani Miya and Veli Khumalo for isiZulu; Baba Mthethwa, Arnold Rankonko and Maphale Moloi for Sesotho; and Tshepo Maimane for Setswana.
Two broadcasters, who spoke to ILANGA on condition of anonymity over concerns about possible repercussions, said they were still awaiting payment.
“We were asked to continue broadcasting matches under the ‘Extra Shift’ programme. We readily agreed, as it meant extra income for us, since we are paid per match broadcast,” one broadcaster said.
The broadcasters said they raised the issue with management shortly after the tournament.
“During our last meeting with management on July 21, two days after the World Cup ended they promised to get back to us regarding when we would be paid. However, when we send emails, they ignore us completely,” the broadcaster said.
They also raised concerns about transport arrangements for early-morning matches, alleging that they had to make their own way to the studio while some international analysts were transported between their Sandton hotel and the studio.
The broadcasters want clarity on how additional work was compensated across different commentary teams and when they will