Latest news with #BloemfonteinCeltic
IOL News
3 days ago
- Business
- IOL News
Bloemfontein Celtic's revival: What fans need to know
The name of Bloemfontein Celtic is one on everybody's lips these days. Siwelele, one of South Africa's most beloved clubs, who were followed by their passionate supporters everywhere they went, could soon be returning to the PSL thanks to the efforts of Bloemfontein-based businessman Eddie Modise. Recently, Bra Eddie – as he is affectionately known – acquired the naming rights for R5 million from Max Tshabalala, who owned the club when it was purchased by Shauwn Mkhize in 2021 and renamed Royal AM. Everyone knows how that story ended. Immediately after acquiring the name, Modise insisted he was not after the top-flight status of SuperSport United, as has been reported in recent weeks. Matsatsantsa had a torrid season and avoided relegation from the Betway Premiership by the skin of their teeth after earning a 1-all draw from their rescheduled game against Golden Arrows on Thursday afternoon.
The Star
10-05-2025
- Business
- The Star
Whoop, whoop, roaring green-and-white hoops of Bloemfontein Celtic braced for PSL return
Herman Gibbs | Published 3 hours ago The heart of Free State's football fraternity is racing with anticipation as Minister of Sports, Arts, and Culture Gayton McKenzie is on the cusp of completing formalities for the return of the defunct Bloemfontein Celtic, fondly known as Siwelele, to the Premier Soccer League (PSL). A consortium spearheaded by McKenzie is orchestrating the transition of the PSL franchise of beleaguered SuperSport United to Bloemfontein Celtic. According to sources familiar with the deal, only the funds have yet to change hands, but information about the agreement suggests an imminent announcement will be made at the end of the current season. McKenzie's commitment in this saga first came to light in February when he expressed a strong commitment to see the potential return of Bloemfontein Celtic to the PSL. At the time, McKenzie told Botha Msila, Celtic's dedicated No 1 fan, that Celtic would soon be back in the PSL. 'I gave him my absolute word that Siwelele is coming back,' said McKenzie, who further underscored his belief in the group's capability to restore the club to their former glory. 'Many tried and failed, but this group will not fail. Exciting times ahead.' The Free State-based club saw their top-flight status sold off amidst financial turmoil in August 2021. The then-owner Max Tshabalala made the heart-wrenching decision to sell the club's PSL status due to crippling financial difficulties. He sold to business mogul Shauwn Mkhize, popularly known as MamKhize, for R50 million. Following the acquisition, she rebranded the team as Royal AM, sparking an outcry among loyal Celtic supporters who have long yearned for the beloved Siwelele back in the elite league. It seems that McKenzie and his consortium were biding their time, and they struck when the franchise of the beleaguered SuperSport United became available. Despite these mounting reports, SuperSport United's current management remains cautious. Stan Matthews, the CEO of SuperSport United, has come forward to dismiss the speculation. 'Since 2019, there have been persistent rumours about the club being sold,' he stated. 'As far as I know, our main focus right now is to avoid relegation.' Media queries directed to SuperSport's chair, Khulu Sibiya and media officer, Brian Moshoeshoe, have gone unanswered. As speculation regarding the club's sale intensifies, the looming question remains: will SuperSport United finish the season strong enough to avert the playoffs and relegation, and subsequently, will these talks dissipate? For now, the club's immediate fate lies in the next three games, crucial fixtures against Stellenbosch FC (May 17 away), Orlando Pirates (May 20 home) and Richards Bay (May 24 home) that will determine whether the sale will continue. As discussions surrounding investment and club management continue, the prospect of revitalising Bloemfontein Celtic has ignited excitement across the region. Fans, who have kept the club's spirit alive through unwavering support, await further updates with bated breath. The journey ahead may be fraught with challenges, but the vision of seeing Siwelele return to the PSL again is beginning to feel tangible. Over time, the loyalty of Celtic's fans has never waned, and many have continued to rally for the return of the club that holds a special place in the hearts of the local community. The coming weeks will be critical for SuperSport United's survival in the league and the prospective return of Celtic's roaring green-and-white hoops to the South African football landscape.
IOL News
10-05-2025
- Business
- IOL News
Whoop, whoop, roaring green-and-white hoops of Bloemfontein Celtic braced for PSL return
Gayton McKenzie Sports Minister Gayton McKenzie hopes to have Bloemfontein Celtic back in the PSL. Photo: BackpagePix Image: BackpagePix The heart of Free State's football fraternity is racing with anticipation as Minister of Sports, Arts, and Culture Gayton McKenzie is on the cusp of completing formalities for the return of the defunct Bloemfontein Celtic, fondly known as Siwelele, to the Premier Soccer League (PSL). A consortium spearheaded by McKenzie is orchestrating the transition of the PSL franchise of beleaguered SuperSport United to Bloemfontein Celtic. According to sources familiar with the deal, only the funds have yet to change hands, but information about the agreement suggests an imminent announcement will be made at the end of the current season. McKenzie's commitment in this saga first came to light in February when he expressed a strong commitment to see the potential return of Bloemfontein Celtic to the PSL. At the time, McKenzie told Botha Msila, Celtic's dedicated No 1 fan, that Celtic would soon be back in the PSL. 'I gave him my absolute word that Siwelele is coming back,' said McKenzie, who further underscored his belief in the group's capability to restore the club to their former glory. 'Many tried and failed, but this group will not fail. Exciting times ahead.' The Free State-based club saw their top-flight status sold off amidst financial turmoil in August 2021. The then-owner Max Tshabalala made the heart-wrenching decision to sell the club's PSL status due to crippling financial difficulties. He sold to business mogul Shauwn Mkhize, popularly known as MamKhize, for R50 million. Following the acquisition, she rebranded the team as Royal AM, sparking an outcry among loyal Celtic supporters who have long yearned for the beloved Siwelele back in the elite league. Video Player is loading. Play Video Play Unmute Current Time 0:00 / Duration -:- Loaded : 0% Stream Type LIVE Seek to live, currently behind live LIVE Remaining Time - 0:00 This is a modal window. Beginning of dialog window. Escape will cancel and close the window. Text Color White Black Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Background Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Transparent Window Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Transparent Semi-Transparent Opaque Font Size 50% 75% 100% 125% 150% 175% 200% 300% 400% Text Edge Style None Raised Depressed Uniform Dropshadow Font Family Proportional Sans-Serif Monospace Sans-Serif Proportional Serif Monospace Serif Casual Script Small Caps Reset restore all settings to the default values Done Close Modal Dialog End of dialog window. Advertisement Next Stay Close ✕ It seems that McKenzie and his consortium were biding their time, and they struck when the franchise of the beleaguered SuperSport United became available. Despite these mounting reports, SuperSport United's current management remains cautious. Stan Matthews, the CEO of SuperSport United, has come forward to dismiss the speculation. 'Since 2019, there have been persistent rumours about the club being sold,' he stated. 'As far as I know, our main focus right now is to avoid relegation.' Media queries directed to SuperSport's chair, Khulu Sibiya and media officer, Brian Moshoeshoe, have gone unanswered. As speculation regarding the club's sale intensifies, the looming question remains: will SuperSport United finish the season strong enough to avert the playoffs and relegation, and subsequently, will these talks dissipate? For now, the club's immediate fate lies in the next three games, crucial fixtures against Stellenbosch FC (May 17 away), Orlando Pirates (May 20 home) and Richards Bay (May 24 home) that will determine whether the sale will continue. As discussions surrounding investment and club management continue, the prospect of revitalising Bloemfontein Celtic has ignited excitement across the region. Fans, who have kept the club's spirit alive through unwavering support, await further updates with bated breath. The journey ahead may be fraught with challenges, but the vision of seeing Siwelele return to the PSL again is beginning to feel tangible. Over time, the loyalty of Celtic's fans has never waned, and many have continued to rally for the return of the club that holds a special place in the hearts of the local community. The coming weeks will be critical for SuperSport United's survival in the league and the prospective return of Celtic's roaring green-and-white hoops to the South African football landscape.
The Star
10-05-2025
- Business
- The Star
Bloemfontein Celtic looming on PSL horizon as SuperSport United speculation swirls
Herman Gibbs | Published 3 hours ago The South African football landscape is abuzz with anticipation as plans are reportedly in motion for the acquisition of SuperSport United by the now-defunct Bloemfontein Celtic. This striking development emerges as speculation heats up around the future of the beleaguered PSL Tshwane outfit, who are facing uncertain times as they grapple with the challenge of relegation. Sources indicate that the blueprint for this sale is in place, yet officials remain tight-lipped about the surprising turn of events. The club's precarious position was compounded by a rocky start to the season, culminating in the departure of seasoned coach Gavin Hunt. Former Bafana Bafana goalkeeper Andre Arendse has stepped in as caretaker coach, guiding a side currently languishing in 13th place with just four matches left this season to prove their mettle. The spectre of relegation hangs heavily as they seek to salvage what remains of a disappointing campaign, which is set to conclude without any silverware. In August 2021, Bloemfontein Celtic sold their Premier Soccer League (PSL) status to reality TV star and businesswoman Shauwn Mkhize for R50 million. At the time, the Free State giants were one of the most supported teams in the country. Despite these mounting reports, SuperSport United's current management remain cautious. Stan Matthews, the CEO of SuperSport, has come forward to dismiss the speculation. 'Since 2019, there have been persistent rumours about the club being sold,' he stated. 'As far as I know, our main focus right now is to avoid relegation.' Media queries directed to SuperSport's chair, Khulu Sibiya and media officer, Brian Moshoeshoe, have gone unanswered. Reports that surfaced indicate that the franchise will relocate the club to Bloemfontein and revive the legendary Bloemfontein Celtic, famously known as ' Phunya Sele Sele ' or ' Siwelele ' . In a season filled with uncertainties, SuperSport face the threat of relegation, but the potential end of their legacy in South African football. The unfolding drama affects their core identity, but also stirs emotions among supporters, reminding many of the rich history and legacy that Bloemfontein Celtic also carried for decades. The coming weeks will be critical for SuperSport ' s survival in the league, and the prospective return of the roaring green-and-white hoops of Celtic to the South African football landscape.
IOL News
10-05-2025
- Business
- IOL News
Bloemfontein Celtic looming on PSL horizon as SuperSport United speculation swirls
John Maduka Bloemfontein Celtic captain John Maduka and his team celebrate with the 2005 SAA Supa 8 trophy after beating SuperSport United at Olen Park, Potchefstroom. Photo: BackpagePix Image: BackpagePix The South African football landscape is abuzz with anticipation as plans are reportedly in motion for the acquisition of SuperSport United by the now-defunct Bloemfontein Celtic. This striking development emerges as speculation heats up around the future of the beleaguered PSL Tshwane outfit, who are facing uncertain times as they grapple with the challenge of relegation. Sources indicate that the blueprint for this sale is in place, yet officials remain tight-lipped about the surprising turn of events. The club's precarious position was compounded by a rocky start to the season, culminating in the departure of seasoned coach Gavin Hunt. Former Bafana Bafana goalkeeper Andre Arendse has stepped in as caretaker coach, guiding a side currently languishing in 13th place with just four matches left this season to prove their mettle. The spectre of relegation hangs heavily as they seek to salvage what remains of a disappointing campaign, which is set to conclude without any silverware. In August 2021, Bloemfontein Celtic sold their Premier Soccer League (PSL) status to reality TV star and businesswoman Shauwn Mkhize for R50 million. At the time, the Free State giants were one of the most supported teams in the country. Despite these mounting reports, SuperSport United's current management remain cautious. Stan Matthews, the CEO of SuperSport, has come forward to dismiss the speculation. 'Since 2019, there have been persistent rumours about the club being sold,' he stated. 'As far as I know, our main focus right now is to avoid relegation.' Media queries directed to SuperSport's chair, Khulu Sibiya and media officer, Brian Moshoeshoe, have gone unanswered.
