SuperSport United Sold to Siwelele F.C And Gayton McKenzie’s Promise Comes to Life
In a historic development for South African football, SuperSport International has officially confirmed the sale of its Premier Soccer League (PSL) club, SuperSport United, to Siwelele Football Club (Pty) Ltd. The sale follows a closed bidding process where Siwelele F.C emerged as the successful bidder, pending approval from the PSL Executive Committee.
The move marks a significant moment for football fans, particularly those who have long been yearning for the return of the famous Siwelele spirit to the top flight. While the newly acquired club will carry the name Siwelele F.C, it is seen as a step towards fulfilling a long-standing promise made by businessman and political figure, Minister Gayton McKenzie.
For years, McKenzie publicly vowed to bring back Siwelele, the beloved football institution deeply rooted in the culture of Bloemfontein Celtic supporters. While Siwelele F.C has not yet legally acquired the original Bloemfontein Celtic name, this acquisition of SuperSport United is widely regarded as a bold and strategic first step towards restoring top-flight football linked to the iconic Celtic fan base.
“As Siwelele F.C, we are privileged to have been given the responsibility of continuing with a rich winning tradition in the PSL,” said Calvin Le John, chairman of Siwelele F.C. “SuperSport and the MultiChoice Group laid an incredible 30 year platform that we wish to build upon, should we get the final vote of approval from the PSL Executive Committee.”
SuperSport United, known for its success with three Premiership titles, now begins a new chapter under Siwelele F.C ownership. Rendani Ramovha, CEO of SuperSport, explained the reasons behind the sale, stating that the company is making “Strategic shifts to allow us to remain the biggest broadcaster in Africa and a leading global competitor.” He added that changes in the market and the need to innovate have driven this focused direction, ensuring SuperSport continues as the continent’s top sports content provider.
At first, the club was called Celtic United, a name they adopted after acquiring SuperSport United. However, they later decided to change it to Siwelele FC. The club moved quickly to design a new logo and jersey since they are not permitted to use the original Bloemfontein Celtic name and logo
While the announcement has generated excitement, all parties involved, including Siwelele F.C, MultiChoice, and SuperSport, have agreed to refrain from making further statements until the PSL Executive Committee delivers its final decision on the sale.
Should the deal be approved, the PSL will welcome back a football entity closely linked to the passionate, colorful supporters known as Siwelele; fulfilling not only McKenzie’s public promise but also reigniting the hopes of thousands of fans who have waited for Celtic’s return to the elite level.