“One Of The Greatest Honours”: Mofokeng Penned This Emotional Goodbye To Orlando Pirates Fan Base
Former Orlando Pirates star Relebohile Mofokeng has shared an emotional farewell message to the club following his transfer to Belgian outfit Union Saint-Gilloise.
Mofokeng completed his move after representing South Africa at the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Although he knew before the tournament that he would be leaving the Buccaneers, he remained fully focused and ended his time at Pirates on a high after an outstanding 2025/26 season.
The 21-year-old leaves the Soweto giants as one of the club’s brightest young talents and now embarks on an exciting new chapter in Belgium.
His move to Union Saint-Gilloise could also see him feature in the UEFA Champions League next season, should the Belgian side qualify for the competition.
“I write this message with a heart full of gratitude, pride and emotion as I bid farewell to Orlando Pirates Football Club. Representing this great institution has been one of the greatest honours of my life,” Mofokeng said in his farewell statement.
“From the moment I first wore the Orlando Pirates badge, I understood the responsibility, history and privilege that come with representing Orlando Pirates. Every training session, every match, every victory and every challenge has shaped me both as a footballer and as a person.
“To the chairman, board, management and everyone involved in the leadership of the club, thank you for believing in me, investing in my development and giving me the opportunity to fulfil a dream that many young footballers aspire to achieve.
“To the coaches, technical team, medical staff and all the employees behind the scenes, thank you for your guidance, dedication, sacrifice and unwavering support throughout my journey. Your contribution often goes unseen, but it never goes unappreciated.
“To my teammates, thank you for the brotherhood, the memories, the battles we fought together and the moments we celebrated as one family. I will forever cherish the relationships we built and the lessons we shared.
“To our sponsors and partners, thank you for your continued support of the club, the players and the broader Orlando Pirates family. Your investment and belief in this institution help make our dreams possible.
“And most importantly, to the Orlando Pirates supporters, the Ghost, thank you from the bottom of my heart. Your passion, loyalty and unwavering support inspired me every time I stepped onto the pitch. Through the highs and the challenges, you stood by us, and I will forever be grateful for the love you have shown me. Wearing this badge in front of you was a privilege I will never take for granted.
“As I embark on a new chapter in my career, I do so carrying the values, memories and experiences that Orlando Pirates have given me. This club will always hold a special place in my heart, and I will always be proud to have been part of its rich history and tradition.
“This is not goodbye, but rather a thank you for an unforgettable journey. I will always respect and honour everything the club has done for me. I arrived at Orlando Pirates as Relebohile Mofokeng.
“Being part of this team has not only made me a better player but also a better person. May Orlando Pirates continue to achieve greatness and bring joy to their millions of supporters around the world.”
