Four years after leaving the Cape Winelands to chase his childhood dream at Naturena, Ashley du Preez has officially returned home. Stellenbosch FC have confirmed the permanent signing of the 29-year-old attacker from Kaizer Chiefs.
Born in Idas Valley, Du Preez originally joined Stellenbosch FC in 2016, racking up 98 appearances during a historic six-year stint before earning a high-profile move to Soweto in 2022. Having helped Amakhosi lift the 2025 Nedbank Cup, the lightning-quick forward now heads back to where his journey started.
An Emotional Farewell to Amakhosi
Before finalizing his Winelands return, Du Preez took to social media to bid an emotional farewell to the club he supported growing up:
“After four unforgettable years, it’s time to close a chapter that has shaped me in more ways than words can express.”
“To Kaizer Chiefs, thank you for believing in a young boy with a dream and giving me the incredible opportunity to wear the badge of the club I grew up supporting. Representing my childhood dream team has been one of the greatest honours of my life.”
“To the Amakhosi faithful, thank you for your unwavering support, your passion, and for standing by me through every high and low. Wearing this jersey and hearing your voices will always hold a special place in my heart.”
The Winelands Homecoming & No. 10 Jersey
For Du Preez, returning to Stellenbosch was always part of his long-term plan:
“I always knew that I would come back to Stellenbosch. It’s great to be back where I grew up and at the club where it all started for me… The community knows me well and has supported me since the start of my professional career.”
Stellenbosch FC CEO Rob Benadie expressed equal delight at bringing the fan favorite home:
“Ashley has always held a special relationship with this club and the Stellenbosch community, so we are incredibly excited to bring him home. He is also an exceptional footballer who has consistently proven his quality in the Betway Premiership.”
Du Preez has been handed Stellies’ iconic No. 10 jersey and could make his debut on Tuesday, 11 August against Polokwane City.
The Chiefs-Stellenbosch Transfer Pipeline
Du Preez’s move caps off an extraordinarily busy transfer window between the two Betway Premiership sides:
- To Stellenbosch FC: Ashley du Preez, Given Msimango, Gopolang Taunyana (20-year-old centre-back), and George Matlou.
- To Kaizer Chiefs: Promising winger Langelihle Phili.
