Kaizer Chiefs: Titles, Legends, Stadium & Legacy in 2026

Kaizer Chiefs – or Amakhosi – is one of South Africa’s biggest and most successful clubs. Founded in 1970, they’ve built a massive fanbase with 12 league titles, tons of cups, and a proud legacy. In 2026 they’re pushing hard in the PSL and CAF Confederation Cup, with sold-out Soweto Derbies and new sponsorship energy.

But questions pop up: Why were Chiefs banned from CAF back in the day? Who’s the owner? What’s the stadium like? Who are the legends? Here’s the full rundown – facts only, no hype.

Kaizer Chiefs Basics – Owner & History

Founded January 7, 1970, by Kaizer Motaung after his Denver Dynamos days (and a stint in the US with Atlanta Chiefs – hence the name).

• Owner/Chairman: Kaizer Motaung (founder, still Executive Chairman in 2026 at age 81). Family-run – son Bobby Motaung handles day-to-day as club manager/CEO figure.
• Nickname: Amakhosi (“Chiefs” in Zulu).
• Colors: Gold and black.
• Home base: Naturena (training), but matches at FNB Stadium.

Started strong in the NPSL, dominated the 70s/80s/90s, hit a quieter patch recently but lifted the Nedbank Cup in 2024/25 and are chasing more in 2026.

Why Were Chiefs Banned from CAF?

Chiefs got a three-year ban from CAF competitions (until 2009) after withdrawing from the 2005 CAF Confederation Cup.

• What happened: In the second round, they pulled out to prioritize a domestic league title-deciding game vs Bloemfontein Celtic instead of traveling for CAF fixtures.
• CAF rules: Any withdrawal after fixtures are set triggers a mandatory three-year ban (plus fine).
• Earlier issue: In 2002, they skipped a Cup Winners’ Cup tie in Madagascar due to political unrest/safety concerns – fined but no full ban then.
• Impact: Missed Champions League spots post-2005 league wins; ban ended 2009.

It’s old history now – Chiefs are back in CAF Confed Cup in 2026, topping their group and eyeing knockouts.

Kaizer Chiefs Stadium – FNB Stadium

Chiefs don’t own a fixed home ground but play big matches at FNB Stadium (also Soccer City/Calabash).

• Capacity: 94,736 – Africa’s largest.
• Location: Nasrec, Johannesburg (near Soweto).
• Built/Upgraded: Original 1989; major revamp for 2010 World Cup.
• Record attendance: 94,807 (Chiefs vs Pirates, 2015).
• Why here?: Perfect for derbies and big crowds – Soweto Derby tickets sold out in record time for Feb 28, 2026.

Smaller games sometimes at other venues, but FNB is the go-to for Amakhosi fans.

Kaizer Chiefs Titles & Trophies

Chiefs are SA’s most decorated club with 93+ trophies total.

Key ones:

• League titles: 12 (record in top-flight eras) – NPSL: 5 (1974, 1977, 1979, 1981, 1984); NSL: 3 (1989, 1991, 1992); Premiership: 4 (2003–04, 2004–05, 2012–13, 2014–15).
• Nedbank Cup (National Cup): 13–14 wins (record).
• MTN8/Top 8: 15 wins (record).
• Other cups: 13 League Cups, etc.
• Continental: 1 African Cup Winners’ Cup (2001).

Recent: Nedbank Cup 2024/25; pushing for PSL and Confed Cup in 2026.

Kaizer Chiefs Legends

Amakhosi have produced icons – here’s a short list of standouts:

• Itumeleng Khune – Goalkeeper legend, long-time captain.
• Doctor Khumalo – Midfield maestro, national hero.
• Shoes Moshoeu – Skillful midfielder.
• Bernard Parker – Versatile forward, still going.
• Collins Mbesuma – Goal machine.
• Jabu Pule – Creative attacker.
• Older era: Ace Ntsoelengoe, Teenage Dladla, Ryder Mofokeng, Banks Setlhodi (goalkeeper/captain).

Many feature in club “Legends” squads for charity games.

Kaizer Chiefs Legacy & Sethodi Connection

Kaizer Chiefs legacy is huge – most supported club in SA, massive rivalries (Soweto Derby), cultural impact beyond football.

• Built by Kaizer Motaung into a billion-rand empire (influence, fans, business).
• Pride in black excellence, community work, youth academy.

“Sethodi” likely refers to Joseph “Banks” Setlhodi – founding member, legendary goalkeeper/captain in the 70s NPSL era. He helped shape the early club, captained during dominant years, and still speaks on Chiefs’ heritage (e.g., on 56th birthday in 2026, reflected on the journey). His legacy ties into the club’s roots and “one day things will come together” mindset during tough times.

Current Sponsorship & 2026 Updates

In February 2026, Chiefs announced a big partnership with Carling Black Label (SAB) – “One Voice – For The Fans” deal, renewing old ties from 2010. Includes fan perks like flying one supporter to 2026 World Cup.

Other sponsors: Vodacom (primary), Kappa (kit), Toyota (sleeve/vehicles), Medshield, SuperSport.

On pitch: Strong 2026 start (5 wins in 6 early games), leading Confed Cup group, chasing PSL title despite Nedbank Cup exit.

FAQ

Why were Chiefs banned from CAF?

In 2005 – withdrew from Confederation Cup to play a domestic title decider; CAF rules auto-ban for 3 years (until 2009). Earlier 2002 fine for skipping Madagascar tie.

Who’s the Kaizer Chiefs owner?

Kaizer Motaung – founder and Executive Chairman since 1970.

What’s Kaizer Chiefs stadium?

FNB Stadium (Soccer City) – 94,736 capacity, main venue for big games like Soweto Derby.

How many titles does Kaizer Chiefs have?

93+ total – 12 leagues, 13–14 Nedbank Cups, 15 MTN8, 1 African Cup Winners’ Cup.

Who are some Kaizer Chiefs legends?

Itumeleng Khune, Doctor Khumalo, Shoes Moshoeu, Bernard Parker, Banks Setlhodi, Ace Ntsoelengoe.

What’s the Kaizer Chiefs legacy?

Most decorated SA club, huge fanbase, cultural icon – from 1970 roots to modern push under Motaung family.

Any new Kaizer Chiefs sponsorship?

Yes – Carling Black Label official sponsor in 2026, plus World Cup fan trips.

Wrap-Up

Kaizer Chiefs remain SA football royalty – 12 leagues, massive legacy from legends like Banks Setlhodi, FNB Stadium vibes, and fresh 2026 momentum with Carling Black Label backing. Past CAF ban is history; now it’s about trophies and derbies.

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