Orlando Pirates Activate Two-Year Contract Extension for Tshegofatso Mabasa

Orlando Pirates have moved to secure the long-term future of their leading striker, Tshegofatso Mabasa, by exercising the two-year option on his contract. With his initial deal set to expire in June 2024, this decision ensures that the 28-year-old forward will remain with the Buccaneers until at least June 2027.

Pirates Commit to Mabasa’s Future

According to sources close to both the player and the club, Pirates have opted to trigger the contract extension rather than negotiating a completely new deal.

“As we speak now, his contract will run until June 2027. The club has already exercised the two years on his contract. It’s not a direct extension or a new contract. For now, they have taken up the option they had on the player, and that’s within their rights to do so. His previous contract was coming to an end in June this year,” an insider revealed to Soccer Laduma.

This move highlights Pirates’ confidence in Mabasa’s abilities and their desire to maintain stability in their attacking options.

Bucs’ Striker Plans for Next Season

Another source confirmed that Pirates are looking to retain their key forwards while also scouting potential additions in the upcoming transfer window.

“What they want to do is try and keep Mabasa, Evidence Makgopa, and Zakhele Lepasa, but they are not ruling out bringing in another striker next season. They have already identified some of those strikers who they are targeting next season. But for the ones who are at the team, they are set to keep them,” the insider explained.

Mabasa’s Role in the Team

Mabasa finished last season as the Golden Boot winner, splitting his contributions between Moroka Swallows—where he was on loan—and Pirates upon his return. However, this season, he has not been as prolific due to coach Jose Riveiro’s rotational approach, which has seen multiple attackers share the goal-scoring responsibilities.

Despite this, Pirates clearly value Mabasa’s presence in the squad and believe he can continue to play an important role in their attacking setup as they look to strengthen their squad for future challenges.