Cricket Rugby Soccer Sport news so fresh, its live!

February 14, 2025
Search
Football DStv Premiership Richards Bay FC

Uncertainty Surrounds Vilakazi’s Future At Richards Bay?

  • July 10, 2024
  • 2 min read
  • 456 Views
Uncertainty Surrounds Vilakazi’s Future At Richards Bay?

Confusion has clouded the future of Richards Bay coach Vusi Vilakazi during the unveiling of the club’s new sponsor, Phakwe Group, on Wednesday in Richards Bay.

Phakwe CEO Thabiso Tenyane announced a three-year sponsorship deal worth R100 million for the club. This includes an annual payment of R20 million and a R40 million commitment of building the club’s facilities over the next three years. Tenyane also hinted at a “big fish” announcement at the end of July.

“Richards Bay will beat the Gauteng teams,” Tenyane declared after the unveiling. “We’ll ensure they have everything they need. The other surprise is the coach.”

Tenyane remained ambiguous about Vilakazi’s position despite his recent contract extension after securing PSL status for the club. “There will be a coach,” Tenyane said, “and it will be announced before the season starts. Of course, you’ll see.”

He emphasized the importance of winning for sponsor association. “We’re an active sponsor because our brand needs to be associated with winners. So, I need to ensure they win.”

Tenyane also spoke about potentially bringing European giants Real Madrid to South Africa, citing his close relationship with Real Madrid president Florentino Perez.

“I’ve been partners with Perez for 15 years in the energy sector,” he explained. “I’m learning how things are done at the highest level. Football’s value in South Africa shouldn’t be lower than the EPL or La Liga. It’s the same sport. We need to do things right.”

Looking ahead to the new season, Richards Bay has secured several signings, including Tlakusani Mthethwa, Siyethemba Sithebe, Thabiso Kutumela, Keegan Allan, Sbani Mntungwa, and Fezile Gcaba. The club also anticipates signing three more players in the coming days.

About Author

Robin-Duke Madlala

3 Comments

  • […] sponsorship has undoubtedly placed pressure on coach Vusi Vilakazi, who secured the club’s safety through the promotion/relegation playoffs at the end of last […]

  • […] Vilakazi, who steered Bay to safety through the PSL promotion/relegation playoffs last season, welcomes the increased competition. He believes the financial support will enable the team to compete on a more level playing field. […]

  • […] Despite offering Vilakazi a contract extension, changes appeared to be considering the club’s substantial R100 million sponsorship deal with Phakwe Gas. During the sponsorship announcement, Phakwe Gas CEO Thabiso Tenyane surprisingly revealed plans to appoint a new coach before the season … […]

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *