Orlando Pirates ruled South Africa with an iconic treble worth R37 million, but Mamelodi Sundowns' CAF Champions League victory instantly banked them R108 million — with pathways to even greater global riches. Photo: Backpagepix
South African football witnessed two different versions of greatness this season.
Orlando Pirates ruled domestically, sweeping aside local competition to complete a historic treble by winning the MTN8, Carling Knockout Cup and Betway Premiership title. Meanwhile, Mamelodi Sundowns once again conquered the continent, lifting the CAF Champions League and reinforcing their growing status as Africa’s modern powerhouse.
Both achievements carried silverware, pressure and prestige. But financially and globally, they exist on very different levels.
Pirates’ domestic dominance brought immediate rewards. Their MTN8 triumph earned R10 million, the Carling Knockout Cup added R6.8 million, while winning the Betway Premiership contributed another R20 million.
