×

We've got news for you.

Register on SowetanLIVE at no cost to receive newsletters, read exclusive articles & more.
Register now

Celtic is sold

MASSIVE SUPPORT: Bloemfontein Celtic fans will soon be reporting to the club's new owners Photo:Gallo Images
MASSIVE SUPPORT: Bloemfontein Celtic fans will soon be reporting to the club's new owners Photo:Gallo Images

FREE State businessman Max Tshabalala, 45, has finally realised his dream of owning a PSL club after he bought Bloemfontein Celtic.

The deal is rumoured to be worth R50-million, according people who are familiar with the details.

"The deal was signed this morning (yesterday) and I'm excited," said Tshabalala, who will hold a meeting with the staff, players and coaches today.

"I can confirm I'm the new owner of Celtic. In fact, I'm still trembling. I never thought the process will be completed so quickly.

"We are planning to meet the Premier Soccer League officials later this week to inform them about the ownership change and officially introduce ourselves."

Tshabalala, who also owns Safa ABC Motsepe League club Roses United, was quick to point out that Celtic will remain in Mangaung, which was a big concern for their supporters when they first heard the club would be sold.

In addition, Tshabalala - who used to play for Celtic's colts during the era of Ernest Mtawali, Michael Yeliwe and Lovemore Chafunya - said he will retain the entire coaching staff.

"We are not planning to get rid of people, instead we will bring more expertise into the club. I'm happy with the coaching staff, they are doing a great job.

"We agreed the Augoustis (previous owners) will remain until the end of the month for a proper handover process."

Tshabalala, a quantity surveyor whose business is property development, said he will also meet the supporters on a regular basis to brief them on the developments within the club."

Celtic owner Jimmy Augousti pleaded ignorance when Sowetan approached him for comment.

PSL general manager Derek Blanckensee said: "I'm not aware of the sale, I'm also not sure if they informed the league because I'm not at the office. Please check with CEO Brand de Villiers, but the process is that they have to apply for permission from the league."

De Villiers could not be reached for comment. Procedurally, the Augoustis would have had to inform the league about the sale.

Would you like to comment on this article?
Register (it's quick and free) or sign in now.

Speech Bubbles

Please read our Comment Policy before commenting.