CAPE TOWN – Stellenbosch FC have reinforced their squad ahead of the opening weekend of the 2026/27 Betway Premiership season, announcing a mix of experienced additions and exciting young talent as Gavin Hunt prepares his side for the new campaign.
The Cape Winelands outfit confirmed the return of left-back Qobolwakhe Sibande for a second spell at the club. Sibande rejoins Stellies on loan from Egyptian Premier League side Petrojet SC, bringing valuable experience and familiarity to the squad as Hunt looks to strengthen his defensive options.
The Maroons have also continued to invest in their successful youth development programme by handing first professional contracts to Academy graduates Luthando Vena and Keanan Johannesen.
Vena, a Kayamandi local, joined the Cape Winelands side at the age of 16 and steadily progressed through the club’s development structures before starring for the DStv Diski Challenge side last season.
The talented youngster has now been rewarded with his first senior contract, marking another significant milestone for the club’s academy.
Joining him is Jamestown-born midfielder Johannesen, who earned promotion to the first team after being named Stellenbosch FC’s Reserve Team Player of the Year last season.
His impressive performances have seen him take the next step in his career as he signs his first professional deal with the club.
Stellies also announced the signing of defender Surprise Nhlabathi on a long-term contract. The defender arrives from Baroka FC after featuring in the Motsepe Foundation Championship last season and is expected to add depth and quality to the club’s defensive unit.
Stellenbosch didn’t end there as they further strengthened their squad with the signing of versatile defender Orlando Avuzwa Mbembe on a long-term contractfrom Chippa United.
The signings underlines Stellies ambition to build on recent successes by blending experienced recruits with homegrown talent. As the Betway Premiership season gets underway, Hunt will be hoping the new additions can make an immediate impact and help the Cape Winelands side challenge strongly throughout the 2026/27 campaign.
Club Statement: Sugar Ray Xulu Stadium to host opening home game of the season 🏟️https://t.co/7yHFVjTVLq
— Stellenbosch FC (@StellenboschFC) July 31, 2026
Stellenbosch FC will kick off their Betway Premiership campaign against Golden Arrows on Saturday.
Although the Cape Winelands side will be the designated home team, the match will be played at Sugar Ray Xulu Stadium in Clermont.
🏟️ 𝐌𝐀𝐓𝐂𝐇𝐃𝐀𝐘 🏟️
The 2026.2027 #BetwayPrem season begins today with 10 teams in action from 15:00. pic.twitter.com/z2I2bLqBGH
— Official PSL (@OfficialPSL) August 1, 2026
