Durban is gearing up to welcome thousands of football fans for Saturday’s highly anticipated MTN8 Cup Final between Orlando Pirates and Mamelodi Sundowns at Moses Mabhida Stadium, with law enforcement agencies and the municipality putting comprehensive safety and security measures in place.
The KwaZulu-Natal Provincial Joint Operational and Intelligence Structure (PROVJOINTS), comprising the South African Police Service (SAPS), Durban Metro Police, the Road Traffic Inspectorate and other law enforcement agencies, including private security, has activated an operational plan covering traffic management, stadium and fan park safety, crowd control and public order.
The match takes place on Saturday, 10 October 2026, with kick-off scheduled for 6pm.
PROVJOINTS has assured football supporters that Durban and surrounding areas remain safe, despite sporadic violent protests in the Durban CBD on Thursday afternoon. Police will maintain an increased presence to prevent criminal activity and ensure the successful hosting of the final.
Authorities have also dismissed misleading social media posts circulating about the staging of the match, warning that misinformation could cause unnecessary panic and confusion.
Through the Event Safety and Security Planning Committee and PROVJOINTS, police management has assured the Premier Soccer League that security arrangements for the final remain in place.
Anyone attempting to breach security protocols or endanger spectators, officials, players or other event participants will face the law.
Stadium gates open at 2pm
EThekwini Municipality has confirmed that stadium gates will open at 2pm four hours before kick-off.
To manage expected traffic volumes, Isaiah Ntshangase Road will be closed from midday and will reopen after the match once it is safe for motorists and pedestrians.
Enhanced traffic management measures, clear signage and traffic marshals will be deployed around the stadium precinct.
Motorists who are not attending the match are advised to avoid the area and use alternative routes.
Parking will be available at the following locations:
A designated drop-off zone has also been established on Umgeni Road. Motorists are urged to use it responsibly and avoid obstructing traffic.
Fans urged to arrive early and follow stadium rules
Authorities have encouraged supporters to arrive early to avoid traffic congestion and last-minute queues at stadium entrances.
Entry to Moses Mabhida Stadium will be restricted to valid ticket holders. Members of the public without tickets are urged not to travel to the stadium precinct.
The following safety restrictions will apply:
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Firearms, knives and bottles are prohibited inside the stadium.
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Unauthorised drones are prohibited, as Moses Mabhida Stadium and its surrounding vicinity have been declared no-fly zones.
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Spectators must comply with instructions from law enforcement and event safety officials.
The Durban Metro Police Service is working alongside SAPS and other security stakeholders to safeguard football fans, residents and visitors before, during and after the match.
Free public viewing at Durban’s South Beach
Supporters who do not have match tickets can watch the action at an official public viewing area at Bay of Plenty on OR Tambo Parade, South Beach.
The public viewing area will feature live entertainment from midday, offering fans an alternative venue to enjoy the match-day atmosphere without travelling to the stadium.
Economic benefits of hosting the final
City Manager Musa Mbhele said hosting the MTN8 final was a proud moment for Durban and an opportunity to support the local economy.
“Hosting the MTN8 Final is a proud moment for Durban and a significant boost for our local economy. Events of this scale drive tourism, support local businesses and affirm our city’s standing as a world-class events destination,” Mbhele said.
EThekwini Municipality has called on supporters, motorists and other attendees to cooperate with law enforcement officials and follow safety instructions to ensure the event proceeds smoothly.
Authorities say the security operation will remain in place before, during and after the final as Durban prepares to host supporters of the two South African football giants.
seanne.rall@iol.co.za
IOL
