Orlando Pirates have officially announced the departure of long-serving striker Zakhele Lepasa, bringing an end to a rollercoaster chapter with the Soweto giants.
In a statement released via the club’s official channels on Thursday afternoon, Pirates confirmed that Lepasa is no longer part of the team heading into the 2025/26 season. The striker now becomes a free agent and is available to negotiate with any club of his choice.
Lepasa’s exit has been on the cards for several weeks, especially after he was left out of the Buccaneers’ pre-season squad that recently travelled to Spain. His omission raised eyebrows and fueled speculation over his future, which the club has now clarified.
The 28-year-old forward, a product of the Pirates youth system, enjoyed memorable highs in black and white, including lifting the MTN8 and Nedbank Cup. He also famously scored the winning penalty for TS Galaxy in the 2019 Nedbank Cup final against Kaizer Chiefs — a goal that catapulted him into the national spotlight.
Unfortunately, injuries hampered Lepasa’s momentum in recent seasons. He struggled to maintain a consistent run of games and spent the 2023/24 season on the sidelines. Despite his setbacks, the forward remained a fan favorite and a symbol of perseverance.
The South African Football Association (SAFA) recently included Lepasa in the final squad for the upcoming 2025 CHAN tournament, listing him as “unattached.” That subtle detail hinted at what has now become official.
Pirates expressed gratitude for Lepasa’s contributions over the years and wished him well in the next chapter of his career.
From academy hopeful to national team striker, Zakhele Lepasa’s journey with the Sea Robbers has come full circle. As he seeks a fresh start, many fans will be watching closely to see where he lands next.
