Swimming South Africa Says R85 Million Needed To Build Olympic Dream

A Price Tag On Olympic Glory

Swimming South Africa (SSA) has put a bold number on its Olympic ambitions: R85 million. That’s the funding the federation says it needs to properly prepare a squad for the 2028 Games in Los Angeles and the 2032 Games in Brisbane.

SSA president Alan Fritz, speaking in Johannesburg, said the plan is not just about filling lanes in the pool but building a world-class program capable of producing medals. “From an athlete and potential standpoint, we are in a very healthy state. However, in terms of resources and physical infrastructure, we are not in a healthy state,” he explained.

Who Will Foot The Bill?

The money, according to Fritz, will come from a mix of SASCOC, the National Lottery, and private sponsorship. Bombela Concessions Company has already pledged R10 million in a one-year deal, with an option to extend. Still, that leaves a significant gap that SSA hopes government and corporate South Africa will help fill.

The Road To Los Angeles

The new strategy includes 21 swimmers and one open-water athlete, with room for expansion depending on performances at upcoming competitions such as the national short-course championships in Pietermaritzburg and next year’s Commonwealth Games in Scotland. Fritz says SSA’s dream is to send around 25 athletes to Los Angeles, including competitors in water polo, diving, artistic swimming, and open water events.

The goal? Three to four medals in LA. But Fritz is clear: “That will only be possible if we receive the financial backing to prepare adequately.”

A Federation With A History Of Delivering

Swimming has often punched above its weight for South Africa at the Olympics. From Penny Heyns’ double gold in 1996 to Tatjana Smith’s (née Schoenmaker) breaststroke triumph in Tokyo, the pool has delivered moments of joy that cut across divisions. But history also shows that medal contenders don’t emerge overnight. They need years of structured support, access to world-class facilities, and consistent international exposure.

Why This Matters Beyond Sport

Fritz’s plea highlights a bigger story: South African sport’s dependence on unstable funding cycles. Without long-term investment, federations are forced into stop-start preparations, and athletes pay the price. The R85 million request is not just about medals. It’s about whether South Africa wants to compete seriously on the world stage or be content with occasional flashes of brilliance.

Source: SABC Sport 

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