South Africa’s sporting and entertainment world felt a collective shock when Shauwn “MaMkhize” Mkhize, the renowned businesswoman and reality TV star, lost her cherished Royal AM football club and a fleet of luxury cars in a dramatic auction. This high-profile event placed a spotlight on the intersection of celebrity, financial accountability, and community impact, following a R37 million tax debt that forced MaMkhize to part with some of her most prized possessions.
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SARS Acts Swiftly: Royal AM and Luxury Cars Sold Off
The South African Revenue Service (SARS) took quick action to recover overdue taxes, seizing both Royal AM Football Club and a collection of luxury vehicles. As SARS placed these valuable assets under curatorship, the auction drew intense public attention, closing in July 2025. Bidders acquired at least ten premium vehicles, alongside the Royal AM club, for a combined total of R8.2 million. However, this figure covered only part of the substantial tax debt.
Standout Vehicles Auctioned
Cars sold at the auction included:
- Mercedes-Benz S680 Maybach Edition 100
- Bentley Continental GTC (2019)
- Mercedes-Benz G-Wagen ONYX Edition
- BMW i7 xDrive 60
- Mercedes-Benz Maybach V-Class and Marcopolo G7 tour bus
- Several BMWs, a Toyota Hilux, Nissan NP300, and Volkswagen Crafter
Many of these vehicles bore the Royal AM branding, making the sale deeply personal for MaMkhize and her supporters.
The Deep Pain of Losing Royal AM
MaMkhize spoke out candidly after the auction, describing the devastation in no uncertain terms. As she explained, “I’ve lost my soul. I think my soul and my heart were invested in that brand. Money – put it aside. We work, we make money every day, but I’ve lost my soul. I think that was my baby.”
She highlighted how the tragedy extended far beyond her own loss. “Sometimes when you do something, you must look at the people and the lives of the people that you are affecting. There were people who depended on Royal AM. And what hurts me the most is not the money. It’s about the families that I believe were affected by something that could have been controlled.”
Ripple Effects – Community and Football
Royal AM’s history began with MaMkhize’s acquisition and rebranding of Bloemfontein Celtic, quickly turning the club into a major force in KwaZulu-Natal football. The club’s loss not only represented a major financial setback but also left staff, players, and fans facing an uncertain future. New owners have now taken over, and the full impact on those who depended on Royal AM continues to unfold.
MaMkhize’s Next Move: A New Beginning in eSwatini
Showing resilience, MaMkhize has begun a new chapter as president of Mbabane Highlanders AM in eSwatini. She revealed her appointment on a three-year contract and has already started blending Royal AM’s gold into the Highlanders’ colours. Notably, MaMkhize did not purchase the club but accepted the presidency by contract, demonstrating her ongoing influence and refusal to be defeated.
Lessons: Wealth, Fame, and Responsibility
MaMkhize’s experience delivers crucial lessons:
- “Financial vigilance and compliance are essential,” as she herself implicitly demonstrated.
- Decisions by high-profile figures “impact entire communities, not just personal lives.”
- Balancing personal passion with careful business management is vital.
By sharing her experiences honestly, MaMkhize helped remind the public that even celebrities face profound setbacks and emotional struggles.
MaMkhize’s Luxury Assets
The auction of MaMkhize’s luxury assets and beloved football club is more than just headline news it stands as a cautionary tale for business, celebrity, and social responsibility in South Africa. MaMkhize’s poignant quotes have allowed many to reflect on public figures’ challenges, while her resilience offers hope for regeneration and adaptability. As she embarks on her new journey in eSwatini, her story serves as a powerful example of accountability, growth, and perseverance.
