Betway Premiership Champions Orlando Pirates release five players including fan favourite Sipho Mbule

Of all the five players released by Betway Premiership champions Orlando Pirates so far, Sipho Mbule is the most surprising inclusion in that list.

Mbule has been a fan favourite at the Soweto club and his release is a shock for the football community.

Even though he was not a regular towards the end of the season, Mbule was instrumental whenever given a chance.

“Orlando Pirates Football Club can confirm the departure of five players following the conclusion of the 2025/26 season,” the club announced today.

"The players who will be leaving the Club upon the conclusion of their respective contracts are Bandile Shandu, Sipho Mbule, Tshegofatso Mabasa, Karim Kimvuidi and Deivi Miguel Vieira.

“Each of the players departs having contributed to the Orlando Pirates journey in their own way, and the Club would like to place on record its appreciation for their service during their time with the Buccaneers.

“Orlando Pirates Football Club thanks Bandile, Sipho, Tshegofatso, Karim and Gilberto for their service and wishes them all the best in the next chapters of their respective careers.”