Orlando Pirates announce new captain and vice-captains for 2025/26 season

Zuko Komisa

Orlando Pirates have named Nkosinathi Sibisi as their new captain for the 2025/26 season.
The appointment followed a confidential player vote, a long-standing club tradition.
Thapelo Xoki and Mbekezeli Mbokazi will serve as Sibisi’s vice-captains.

Orlando Pirates Football Club has officially confirmed the appointment of a new captain and two vice-captains ahead of the eagerly anticipated 2025/26 season.

The crucial leadership role has been vacant since the departure of long-serving defender Innocent Maela, who captained the Buccaneers from 2022.

Maela himself took over the armband from another club stalwart and legend, Happy Jele.

In a move that honours the club’s established traditions, the new leadership appointments were determined directly by the players themselves through a confidential voting process.

This democratic approach saw defender Nkosinathi Sibisi emerge as the team’s overwhelming choice to wear the captain’s armband.

Speaking on his new captaincy, Sibisi expressed his profound gratitude and commitment.

“It is truly an honour and privilege to be named captain of this great institution,”

“It’s a responsibility that I accept and promise to fulfil the role in the best way I possibly can.” he stated.

Sibisi will be supported by two new vice-captains, with Thapelo Xoki and Mbekezeli Mbokazi being named to the crucial assisting roles.