Stellenbosch FC have completed the signing of hometown hero Ashley du Preez from Kaizer Chiefs, with the experienced forward returning to the Cape Winelands on a permanent deal four years after leaving the club.
The move marks a homecoming for the 29-year-old attacker, who began his professional career at Stellenbosch before spending four seasons with Amakhosi.
Ashley du Preez returns to where it all began
Born in Idas Valley, Du Preez joined Stellenbosch FC in 2016 and made 98 appearances across all competitions during a successful six-year spell.
He was also part of a significant moment in the club’s history, coming off the bench in Stellenbosch’s first-ever competitive fixture against Mthatha Bucks in the National First Division 10 years ago.
His impressive performances earned him a move to Kaizer Chiefs ahead of the 2022/23 campaign, where he helped Amakhosi lift the 2025 Nedbank Cup during his four-year stay at Naturena.
Now, the pacey forward is back where his career began after signing a long-term contract with Stellies.
Emotional farewell to Kaizer Chiefs
Before his return was confirmed, Du Preez bid an emotional farewell to Kaizer Chiefs, thanking the club that fulfilled his childhood dream.
“After four unforgettable years, it’s time to close a chapter that has shaped me in more ways than words can express,” he wrote.
“To Kaizer Chiefs, thank you for believing in a young boy with a dream and giving me the incredible opportunity to wear the badge of the club I grew up supporting. Representing my childhood dream team has been one of the greatest honours of my life.”
The forward also thanked everyone who had supported him during his time at Naturena.
“Thank you to every coach, team-mate, member of staff, and everyone behind the scenes who has been part of this journey. The lessons, challenges, victories, setbacks, and memories have all played a part in making me not only a better footballer, but a better person.”
He reserved special praise for the Amakhosi supporters.
“To the Amakhosi faithful, thank you for your unwavering support, your passion, and for standing by me through every high and low. Wearing this jersey and hearing your voices will always hold a special place in my heart.”
“As I begin a new chapter, I do so with immense gratitude and pride for everything this club has given me. Thank you, Kaizer Chiefs, for four years I’ll never forget.”
‘I always knew I would come back’
Du Preez admitted that a return to Stellenbosch had always been part of his plans.
“I always knew that I would come back to Stellenbosch,” he said.
“It’s great to be back where I grew up and at the club where it all started for me, and to be part of the Stellenbosch family again.
“The community knows me well and has supported me since the start of my professional career, so being a local player and representing the club again is a huge honour and privilege for me. It’s an amazing feeling to be back.”
‘We’re bringing him home’
Stellenbosch FC CEO Rob Benadie said the club was delighted to welcome one of its own back to the Winelands.
“Ashley has always held a special relationship with this club and the Stellenbosch community, so we are incredibly excited to bring him home,” Benadie said.
“He is also an exceptional footballer who has consistently proven his quality in the Betway Premiership over a number of years, and we believe he will add enormous value to our squad both on and off the field.”
No 10 shirt awaits
Du Preez has been handed Stellenbosch’s iconic No 10 jersey and could start when the club travels to play Polokwane City in the Betway Premiership on Tuesday, 11 August.
His arrival continues a busy transfer window between Stellenbosch and Kaizer Chiefs.
Winger Langelihle Phili this week completed a move from Stellies to Amakhosi, while defender Given Msimango has also left Kaizer Chiefs to join the Cape side on a permanent transfer.
Stellenbosch FC have confirmed the signing of a third player from Kaizer Chiefs in the last two days, with 20-year-old centre-back Gopolang Taunyana making the move to the Cape Winelands.
George Matlou also made the switch between clubs earlier in the window.
