Orlando Pirates Dethrone Kaizer Chiefs On Social Media

Orlando Pirates have claimed bragging rights over their bitter rivals Kaizer Chiefs by becoming South Africa’s most followed football club across major social media platforms, highlighting the Buccaneers’ growing influence both on and off the pitch.

According to figures published on October 21, 2026, Pirates have accumulated approximately 10.5 million followers across Facebook, X, Instagram and TikTok, moving ahead of Chiefs, who sit second with 9.9 million followers. Mamelodi Sundowns complete the top three with eight million followers.

1. Orlando Pirates – 10.5 million followers

3. Mamelodi Sundowns – 8 million followers

Pirates’ impressive numbers reflect the club’s growing digital presence, with their recent success on the field also helping strengthen their appeal among supporters.

The Buccaneers boast approximately 5.3 million followers on Facebook, 2.1 million on X, 1.9 million on TikTok and 1.2 million on Instagram. Their presence across all four platforms gives them an important advantage in the race for digital supremacy.

Chiefs, meanwhile, remain a social media powerhouse despite slipping into second place. Amakhosi have approximately 5.6 million Facebook followers, 3.1 million on X and 1.2 million on Instagram. However, the club does not have an official TikTok account, leaving Pirates with an additional platform to reach younger supporters.

Sundowns’ third-place position demonstrates their growing popularity, with continental achievements helping the reigning African champions expand their audience. The Tshwane giants have 3.6 million Facebook followers, 1.2 million on X, 1.9 million on TikTok and 1.3 million on Instagram.

While Chiefs continue to enjoy enormous support throughout South Africa, Pirates’ rise illustrates how sporting success and effective digital marketing can influence a club’s online reach.

For the Buccaneers, overtaking Amakhosi represents another victory in one of South African football’s fiercest rivalries. However, social media followers do not necessarily determine which club has the biggest overall supporter base.

For now, Pirates lead the digital race, with Chiefs and Sundowns chasing closely behind.

https://iol.co.za/sport/soccer/psl/2026-10-21-amakhosi-dethroned-inside-the-social-media-power-shift-in-south-african-football/

LindokuhleWrites feedback-opera-news-app@opera.com