Time running out for Springboks and Proteas to keep SA flag flying at World Cups

The Springboks and Proteas run the risk of not playing their respective Rugby and Cricket World Cup matches under the SA flag, due to government’s continued noncompliance with the new World Anti-Doping Agency (Wada) code.

Time is of the essence and many are hoping the Department of Sport, Arts and Culture will be able to defuse the row over non-compliance with anti-doping regulations.

The ban is due to come into effect this Saturday, the day before the Springboks quarter-final showdown with hosts France.

Deadline

Missing the deadline would trigger a ban on the world champions flying their flag and playing the national anthem for Sunday’s crunch clash in Paris.

One of the few options available to avoid the sanctions would be to appeal to the Court of Arbitration for Sport’s decision, in hope of buying some time.

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Minister of sport  Zizi Kodwa is expected to give an update on Tuesday on the actions that have been undertaken since Wada’s Compliance Review Committee recommended the current South African legislation is non-compliant with the 2021 World Anti-Doping Code.

“The Minister will also address concerns that have been raised by some South Africans on the WADA decision affecting the flying of the South African flag at major sport events.”

Warning

Wada first announced the consequences last month, warning South Africa had still failed to meet the “mandatory compliance” of the revised code, which came into effect on January 1st, 2021.

All member countries are expected to comply, and South Africa were given a final deadline of October 13th.

South Africa and Bermuda are the only countries not to update their regulations, according to the Montreal-based anti-doping organisation.

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