The South African Football Association has parted ways with its CEO, Raymond Hack. According to a statement released by the Association, the two parties reached a mutual agreement to relive Hack off his duties with immediate effect.

The official statement reads:

The South African Football Association (SAFA) has parted ways with Chief Executive Officer, Raymond Hack with immediate effect.

Addressing the media in Johannesburg on Wednesday, 06 January, SAFA President Kirsten Nematandani said it was a very difficult decision to take but something that had to be done.

“When you have been with a person for as long a time as we have been with Mr Hack, it becomes very difficult to part ways – no matter the reasons. But we did a lot of soul-searching, a lot of introspection and we believe we have come to the right decision – which was arrived at amicably. Every organisation has a vision, and in terms of us going forward we felt it was correct that we release Mr Hack from his duties and continue the vision with someone else – he has run his race and we can only thank him for his services,” said Nematandani.

Hack will, however, continue with his other football commitments and has said that he will be available when the Association needs him. His contract was due to end after the 2010 FIFA World Cup.

“It has been a priviledge for me to work for this organisation, but most importantly it was a great pleasure serving football. I am not leaving under any cloud, there is no animosity and I was not pushed. If my services are still needed I will avail myself. We are now in the new four-year cycle of the SAFA leadership, I can only wish them well,” said Hack.

The new SAFA CEO is expected to be announced on Thursday, 07 January 2010