The wait is finally over. The Motsepe Foundation Championship returns this weekend, with teams across South Africa beginning their campaigns with promotion, survival and silverware on the line.
The opening round gets underway on Friday, with Real Native FC hosting Cape Town City FC at Solomon Mahlangu Stadium, while Venda FC take on Lerumo Lions FC at Thohoyandou Stadium.
A NEW SEASON, A NEW PROMOTION BATTLE
The second tier promises another fiercely contested campaign after a dramatic 2025/26 season.
Kruger United were crowned champions last season and earned automatic promotion to the Betway Premiership. Milford FC joined them in the top flight after winning the promotion/relegation play-offs, while Cape Town City finished third.
At the other end of the table, Baroka FC and Black Leopards FC dropped into the ABC Motsepe League.
The new campaign also welcomes Magesi FC and Orbit College FC back to the second tier after their relegation from the top flight.
OPENING WEEKEND FIXTURES
Friday, 21 August
- Real Native FC vs Cape Town City FC — 15:00, Solomon Mahlangu Stadium
- Venda FC vs Lerumo Lions FC — 15:00, Thohoyandou Stadium
Saturday, 22 August
- Hope FC vs University of Pretoria — 15:00, Athlone Stadium
- Hungry Lions FC vs Gomora United FC — 15:00, Molisli Dicky Jacobs Stadium
- Leicesterford City FC vs Orbit College FC — 15:00, Mafori Mphahlele Stadium
- Midlands Wanderers FC vs Magesi FC — 15:00, Sugar Ray Xulu Stadium
- North West University vs Upington City FC — 15:00, NWU Mahikeng Stadium
- The Bees FC vs Highbury FC — 15:00, Kanyamazane Stadium
WHO WILL MAKE THE FIRST STATEMENT?
With promotion places up for grabs and relegation another reality, every point could prove valuable as the season progresses.
The return of Magesi and Orbit College adds further intrigue, while established promotion hopefuls such as Cape Town City, University of Pretoria and Upington City will be looking to make strong starts.
The opening weekend offers supporters their first glimpse of the new squads and could provide early clues about which clubs are ready to challenge for promotion.
One thing is certain: the road to the Betway Premiership starts now.
Recent Motsepe Foundation Championship champions
- 2025/26: Kruger United
- 2024/25: Durban City
- 2023/24: Magesi FC
- 2022/23: Polokwane City
- 2021/22: Richards Bay
