Millions Up for Grabs: What South Africa’s Big Four Will Earn in 2026/27 CAF Competitions

The financial stakes have never been higher for South African football. Four Premier Soccer League (PSL) heavyweights—Orlando Pirates, Mamelodi Sundowns, Kaizer Chiefs, and Durban City—are gearing up to represent Mzansi on the continental stage next season.

With the Confédération Africaine de Football (CAF) boasting historic bumps in its prize pools, South African clubs aren’t just playing for historic legacy and badge pride—they are chasing game-changing multi-million rand paydays.

The Heavy Hitters: CAF Champions League (CAFCL)

Having broken their 14-year league title drought to win the 2025/26 Betway Premiership, Orlando Pirates make a roaring return to the elite CAF Champions League. They are joined by cross-town rivals Mamelodi Sundowns, who finished second in the domestic campaign but enter the tournament with massive momentum as the defending continental champions.

• The Ultimate Prize: $6 million (approx. R98 million) for the tournament winner.

The Chasers: CAF Confederation Cup (CAFCC)

Under the tactical leadership of co-coaches Cedric Kaze and Khalil Ben Youssef, Kaizer Chiefs locked down a third-place finish to secure a return to continental football. They will be accompanied by the ultimate underdogs, Durban City, who shocked the nation by lifting the 2026 Nedbank Cup to earn automatic qualification.

• The Ultimate Prize: $4 million (approx. R65 million) for the tournament winner.

The 2026/27 CAF Interclub Roadmap

The journey through the tournament is a grueling test of depth and endurance. Should the South African clubs advance past the qualifying phases, they face a packed itinerary:

With the group stages kicking off just before the new year, all eyes will be on whether Mzansi can retain its grip on African football dominance and bring the ultimate prize money back to South African shores.