Commercial win and transfer setback

Orlando Pirates’ emphatic offseason just got better. Suzuki, the Japanese car manufacturer, has officially partnered with the Soweto giants as their new vehicle sponsor.

“A new chapter starts here,” Suzuki announced. “From the streets to the stadium, we move as one.”

This agreement strengthens Pirates’ already formidable sponsor portfolio, which includes big names like Adidas, Aquelle, Vodacom and Carling Black Label.

Off-field gains, on-field questions

While the Suzuki announcement is a commercial boost, one of Pirates’ long-standing targets, Fawaaz Basadien, appears set for a move to Mamelodi Sundowns. After missing training yesterday, speculation has intensified around his potential exit.

In addition, concerns continue around the future of one of the club’s brightest young prospects, Relebohile Mofokeng. With several foreign clubs circling, his father, Sechaba, has made no secret of his desire to see him leave the local league for Europe.

“I know God will answer my prayers,” he said. “Take him to Barcelona? He can play. PSG? He can play. Any country — but not Saudi Arabia. Not yet.”