Share

Oscar's career is 'finished'

Johannesburg - Paralympian Oscar Pistorius's sentence and conviction for the killing of his girlfriend Reeva Steenkamp marks the end of his world athletics career, Sports Minister Fikile Mbalula has told The Cape Argus.

"For me, that (Pistorius's conviction and sentence) was the end of the road of his journey," Mbalula was quoted on Thursday.

"It is unfortunate that it had to end in this manner, but the courts have spoken and we will respect their decision."
Mbalula reportedly told the newspaper that Pistorius had helped to "open doors" for South Africa in the international sporting scene.

"It [the sentencing] has been a very sad moment for us in sport, in the sense that Oscar was the epitome of wisdom, skill and triumph over adversity.

"...I do not think Oscar will be able to come back in terms of athletics."

Pistorius was sentenced to five years in prison after being found guilty of culpable homicide. For discharging a firearm at Tasha's restaurant in January 2013, he was sentenced to three years in jail, suspended for five years.

The sentences would run concurrently, Judge Thokozile Masipa ruled.
We live in a world where facts and fiction get blurred
Who we choose to trust can have a profound impact on our lives. Join thousands of devoted South Africans who look to News24 to bring them news they can trust every day. As we celebrate 25 years, become a News24 subscriber as we strive to keep you informed, inspired and empowered.
Join News24 today
heading
description
username
Show Comments ()
Voting Booth
Should Siya Kolisi keep the captaincy as the Springboks build towards their World Cup title defence in 2027?
Please select an option Oops! Something went wrong, please try again later.
Results
Yes! Siya will only be 36 at the next World Cup. He can make it!
26% - 1118 votes
No! I think the smart thing to do is start again with a younger skipper ...
29% - 1284 votes
I'd keep Siya captain for now, but look to have someone else for 2027.
45% - 1979 votes
Vote
Editorial feedback and complaints

Contact the public editor with feedback for our journalists, complaints, queries or suggestions about articles on News24.

LEARN MORE