Newlands Stadium sale faces legal challenge as ARA takes SARU to court

The African Restoration Alliance (ARA) has taken the South African Rugby Union (SARU) to the Western Cape High Court over SARU’s decision to place the Western Province Rugby Football Union (WPRFU) under administration. ARA wants the decision declared unlawful and is seeking an interdict to prevent the sale of the Newlands Rugby Stadium precinct. Party leader Dr Jerome Swarts says the stadium should be returned to the community and serve local clubs and supporters rather than be treated primarily as a commercial asset. SARU defends its decision by citing problems in the WPRFU’s administration; judgment has been reserved.