Presidential Surprise: Cyril Ramaphosa Drops Shoc-king Statement on Soweto Derby at PSL Headquarters

President Ramaphosa Sends Powerful Message to South African Football as He Praises PSL and Soweto Derby

President Cyril Ramaphosa has paid a glowing tribute to the Premier Soccer League (PSL), describing it as the best-organised football league on the African continent while praising the famous Soweto Derby for its international reputation.

The President visited the PSL headquarters in Parktown, Johannesburg, on Monday, 2 November 2026, where he met league chairman Dr Irvin Khoza and acknowledged the organisation’s contribution to South African sport and society.

Ramaphosa’s visit came just days after the highly anticipated Soweto Derby between Orlando Pirates and Kaizer Chiefs attracted enormous attention at FNB Stadium. The fixture remains one of the biggest events on the country’s football calendar, bringing together supporters from different backgrounds through their shared passion for the game.

Speaking during the visit, Ramaphosa explained that his intention was to recognise the PSL’s achievements and congratulate its leadership for the work it continues to do in developing and organising football in South Africa.

He praised the league for managing a sport that plays a significant role in the lives of millions of South Africans, highlighting football’s popularity and its ability to bring happiness to communities across the country.

According to reports published after the meeting, Ramaphosa referred to audience measurements presented by Khoza, indicating that football accounts for approximately 77% of South Africans who follow sport. The figures underline the game’s enormous influence and its importance within the country’s sporting landscape.

The President also singled out the Soweto Derby, which he described as one of the greatest football rivalries on the African continent and internationally. The rivalry between Orlando Pirates and Kaizer Chiefs has developed into much more than an ordinary football match, with generations of families passing their loyalties to the next generation.

Ramaphosa further welcomed the PSL’s decision to trademark the Soweto Derby, recognising the importance of protecting and strengthening a sporting brand that has become closely associated with South African football.

His praise represents an important acknowledgement of the league’s influence beyond the pitch. The PSL contributes to employment, commercial partnerships, broadcasting, sponsorships and opportunities for professional footballers, while also providing entertainment to millions of supporters.

The President’s message was clear: South Africa has much to celebrate when it comes to its domestic football structures and the passion surrounding its biggest fixtures.

With the Soweto Derby continuing to attract national and international attention, Ramaphosa’s remarks have once again placed the spotlight on the PSL’s position as a major force in African football.

His visit also served as a reminder of the responsibility facing football administrators to maintain high standards, improve the matchday experience and ensure that the league continues to grow.

For South African football supporters, the President’s recognition is another moment of pride for a competition that remains central to the country’s sporting identity.

Source https://x.com/KickOffMagazine/status/2117542437237174760?a=yoFJgtO4EBJu5x7tUSc&s=19

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