End of an era as two Limpopo teams get relegated

Limpopo clubs Black Leopards and Baroka FC have officially been relegated from the Motsepe Foundation Championship to the SAFA ABC Motsepe League.

With one match remaining in the season, Baroka are set to finish bottom of the table, while Black Leopards will finish second from bottom.

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Both clubs have previously competed in South Africa’s top-flight Premiership. Baroka FC, under the leadership of Khurishi Mphahlele, also won the 2018 Telkom Knockout and remains the only professional football club in South Africa to own its own stadium.

Black Leopards, owned by David Thidiela, were initially relegated to the amateur ranks in 2023 but later purchased All Stars’ status to retain their professional status.

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Leopards’ relegation was confirmed on Sunday, 10 May, despite their 2-1 win against neighbours Venda FC. Their safety was dependent on the result of the match between The Bees FC and Leicesterford City FC. The Bees, who needed a point to survive, won the match by 2-1.

On the other hand, Baroka were relegated after their loss against Kruger United at the Mafori Village on 26 April 2026. Both clubs will now participate in the lower league at the beginning of the 2026/27 season.