Former SAFA Vice And World Cup LOC Member Passes Away

Mahlalela was a former vice president of the South African Football Association and he diligently worked for the LOC as a venue volunteer coordinator in the 2010 FIFA World Cup host city of Nelspruit at the time of his passing.

Commenting on his untimely passing, the LOC's chief executive officer, Danny Jordaan said: “Reuben's death comes as a huge shock to all of us. We saw him go into the festive season very happy and looking forward to the new year.

"And now, hearing of his sudden passing has left us very sad. On behalf of the staff of the 2010 Organising Committee I would like to convey our heartfelt condolences to his family.”

Mahlalela had joined the LOC as a full-time employee in July last year and had been very influential at a difficult time. With Mahlalela playing an important role, the 2010 FIFA World Cup stadium in Mbombela continued to make good progress.

Jordaan described Mahlalela's passing as a huge setback for the LOC's 2010 host city team in Nelspruit, but added, “Reuben has made his contribution to South African football.

"As vice president of SAFA and as the head of delegation for Bafana Bafana at a number of major international tournaments and matches, he was a very experienced individual and football administrator and he will be greatly missed.”

The staff at Goal.com wish to convey their heartfelt condolences to Mr Mahlalela's family and friends at this difficult time.

Peter Pedroncelli, Goal.com