Siwelele FC announce departure of 12 players

Siwelele FC have officially announced the departure of 12 players as preparations for the 2026/27 Betway Premiership season gather momentum.

The club is reshaping its squad after securing top-flight survival in its maiden campaign following the purchase of SuperSport United’s Premiership status.

The departing players are Happy Mashiane, Ghampani Lungu, Bohlale Ngwato, Neo Rapoo, Thabang Mahlangu, Lazola Maku, Kgaogelo Sekgota, Pogiso Sanoka, Enoch Quaicoe, Gape Moralo, Keanin Ayer, and Lyle Lakay.

Their exits mark the beginning of what is expected to be a busy transfer window for the Bloemfontein outfit.

The squad overhaul comes after Siwelele FC finished 10th in the 2025/26 , comfortably avoiding relegation in their first-ever campaign. The club’s management has now turned its attention to strengthening the squad ahead of the new season.

TURBULENT SIWELELE FC FIRST SEASON ENDED ON A HIGH

The Bloemfontein club was formed ahead of the 2025/26 campaign after a consortium led by chairman Calvin Le John purchased the top-flight status of SuperSport United for R50 million. The move revived the famous Siwelele identity associated with the former Bloemfontein Celtic, with the team eventually making Dr Petrus Molemela Stadium its home.

Siwelele FC endured a difficult start to life in the Betway Premiership, winning just one of their opening seven league matches.

The poor run prompted Calvin Le John to make sweeping changes in September 2025, dismissing CEO Stan Matthews and assistant coach Andre Arendse. The club then appointed Lehlohonolo Seema as head coach and reinforced the squad with several signings, including former Orlando Pirates striker Zakhele Lepasa on transfer deadline day.

Under Seema, Siwelele FC gradually found stability and climbed away from danger. Experienced players such as Vincent Pule, Ghampani Lungu, and Siviwe Magidgidi played important roles as the club secured its Betway Premiership status.

After mathematically guaranteeing survival in April 2026, Seema delivered an emotional address to his players, celebrating the achievement of the club’s primary objective. Siwelele FC ultimately finished 10th before immediately beginning a major rebuilding process for the upcoming campaign.