IN the high-stakes world of professional football, where players often command staggering salaries, a hidden burden known as ‘Black Tax’ has quietly become endemic. Speaking on former England defender Rio Ferdinand’s Vibe with Five podcast, former Chelsea midfielder John Mikel Obi ignited a conversation about this financial challenge, shedding light on the struggles faced by African footballers in managing their newfound wealth.
Obi elucidated the cultural expectations dictating financial responsibilities for successful players. ‘When you come from Africa,’ he explained, ‘when you make money, it is not your money.’ This sentiment resonates across the continent, where players often find themselves financially supporting numerous relatives, placing a heavy strain on their long-term financial security.
Nqobile Ndlovu, director and founder of Cash N Sport, emphasised the misconception around footballers’ earnings. He stated, ‘The notion that most football players earn millions is untrue,’ referencing a FIFPRO Global study in 2019 that revealed over 45 percent of players globally earned less than $1,000 a month.
Ndlovu highlighted, ‘The pervasive nature of “Black Tax” poses a direct challenge to the financial stability of African professional footballers. These players, more often than not, are supporting multiple people on their salaries.’
The term ‘Black Tax’ originated in apartheid-era South Africa, signifying the financial contributions Black professionals made to their families. In the context of football, this phenomenon has been largely discussed in hushed tones, with players who publicly address it often labelled as the ‘black sheep’ of their families.
Emmanuel Adebayor, a former Togo international with a stellar club career, revealed his struggles with family demands. He told Al Jazeera, ‘They call me, not to ask how I am, but to demand money,’ highlighting the relentless financial pressures faced by players even after retirement.
Adebayor advised, ‘It is important to know that as footballers, you want to take care of other people’s problems, but you are quick to forget that when you fall down, no one is going to take care of you.’
Without exposure to financial literacy and support systems like pension schemes, African footballers face unique challenges in securing their post-career standing. Experts suggest that self-sufficiency and continued financial freedom for African footballers hinge on specific career preparation off the pitch.
Ndlovu stressed, ‘The pressure to make others happy or fix their problems is one that could end up consuming you, if you’re not careful. Football is a short career because just one bad injury could end it all.’
As the conversation gains momentum, the industry must evolve to provide the necessary financial education and support systems to ensure players can navigate the financial game successfully. Adebayor stands as a testament to the possibility of financial stability post-retirement, but he remains an exception rather than the rule. Addressing ‘Black Tax’ becomes imperative for the long-term well-being of African footballers in an industry marked by uncertainties and short careers.
(with Al Jazeera)