Orlando Pirates Hit the Accelerator with Bold Suzuki Deal

New season, new kit, new ride — Orlando Pirates have officially joined forces with Suzuki South Africa in a high-powered vehicle partnership that has fans revving with excitement.

There’s a sense of swagger around Orlando Pirates right now — and it’s not just the new kit turning heads. With the 2025/26 season fast approaching, the Soweto giants have unveiled a fresh partnership with Suzuki South Africa, making the Japanese automaker the official vehicle sponsor of the club.

Unveiled alongside their sleek new home and away strips, the Suzuki announcement signals a shift in gears for the Bucs both on and off the pitch. The iconic Suzuki “S” will now be seen on the sleeve of every Pirates jersey, symbolising a deal that’s set to drive the club’s brand to new destinations.

“Isukile!” proclaimed Suzuki on launch day. “We’re proud to embark on an exciting new journey with Orlando Pirates. A new season with a partnership ready to drive the game forward.”

A Club on the Rise

This isn’t just about flashy logos and Instagram-ready car photos. Pirates are riding the momentum of a landmark season that reignited their continental ambitions and deepened their domestic dominance.

In 2024/25, they surged into the CAF Champions League semi-finals for the first time in over a decade. Although they fell short in the second leg against Egyptian side Pyramids FC, the performance signalled that the Bucs are once again a serious force beyond local borders.

Back home, they finished second in the Betway Premiership, clinching a CAF spot for the upcoming campaign and collecting yet another MTN8 title — their third in a row — with a nail-biting final against Stellenbosch FC. Even their Nedbank Cup run, though cut short by bitter rivals Kaizer Chiefs, reaffirmed their status as top contenders.

Motoring Into the PSL Mainstream

Suzuki’s move isn’t just big for Pirates — it reflects a growing trend across South African football. PSL clubs are no longer just chasing sponsorships with banks and beverage companies. Cars are now part of the conversation.

Kaizer Chiefs have long had Toyota in their corner, while Mamelodi Sundowns recently announced a new deal with Chery South Africa. Even AmaZulu linked up with Mitsubishi, and Durban City drove into the big leagues with BMW Supertech.

For Suzuki, tapping into the Pirates fan base — one of the most loyal and widespread in the country — is a strategic win. For the Bucs, it’s another badge of honour in a season where ambition is running high.

What Fans are Saying

Social media lit up the moment the partnership was revealed. Fans praised the club’s ability to attract high-value sponsors and speculated about Suzuki-themed activations, branded car giveaways, and potential perks for supporters.

“We’re riding into greatness! Suzuki x Pirates is the combo we didn’t know we needed,” one fan posted on X.

“Hope we get to see the team roll up to matches in Suzukis. That would be 🔥,” added another.

First Look: MTN8 Showdown Awaits

Supporters won’t have to wait long to see the Suzuki logo in action. Pirates are set to debut their new-look kit in their MTN8 quarter-final clash against Polokwane City on Saturday, 2 August at Orlando Stadium — the perfect stage to flex both fashion and form.

As the countdown to kickoff begins, one thing’s clear: with a new sponsor, a revamped kit, and a hunger for more silverware, the Buccaneers aren’t just preparing for another season. They’re shifting into high gear.

Source:The South African 

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