Kaizer Chiefs Pull Out Of Match Leaving Tournament Schedule in Flux

The Amakhosi have made a surprising decision to withdraw from an upcoming fixture leaving fans and organisers shocked and disappointed.

Kaizer Chiefs made a shocking announcement on Sunday confirming their withdrawal from the Prince Mangosuthu Legacy Cup 2025. 

The tournament, originally scheduled for 11 October, had already been postponed to 16 November to accommodate Chiefs’ injury concerns and travel logistics.

The withdrawal has disappointed fans and organisers alike, as the fixture was expected to draw large crowds in Ulundi. 

Kaizer Chiefs’ participation was highly anticipated, given their history and dominance in South African football.

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The Zululand District Municipality officially confirmed the withdrawal, stating that Kaizer Chiefs sent a letter signed by the Club Chairman citing the team’s commitments in upcoming competitions as the primary reason. 

The organisers also announced that Richards Bay FC would replace Chiefs in the tournament, ensuring the cup proceeds as planned.

Dr. Motaung explained: “This difficult decision has been necessitated primarily by unforeseen changes to our international fixture calendar following the official draw for the CAF Confederation Cup group stages, which was conducted earlier this week.

“The draw has imposed specific travel logistics and preparatory requirements that directly conflict with our participation in the tournament. As a club with a proud history on the continent, our commitments to CAF competitions must take precedence and the revised schedule leaves us unable to fulfil our obligation to your event without compromising our performance and obligations.”

Richards Bay Steps In

With Chiefs out, Richards Bay FC will now face 2024/25 Premier League Eswatini champions Nsingizini Hotspurs FC in the second semi-final at 12h00. 

The tournament will kick off at 09h00 when AmaZulu FC takes on Njampela FC, setting the tone for an exciting day of football in Ulundi. The winners of the semi-finals will meet in the final, scheduled for 16h00, promising a competitive conclusion to the cup.

His Worship, the Mayor of the Zululand District Municipality, Cllr Michael Khumalo, said: “While we are disappointed by the withdrawal of Kaizer Chiefs FC, we have a responsibility to the people of Zululand to deliver the annual Prince Mangosuthu Legacy Cup 2025.

“I would like to thank the Chairman of Richards Bay FC, Mr. Sifiso Biyela, for agreeing to our late request to participate in this year’s edition of the tournament. His support ensures that we continue to honour and celebrate the legacy of the late Prince Mangosuthu Buthelezi while preserving the quality and competitiveness of the tournament.”

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