Bloemfontein Celtic return under new owner, declare war on Siwelele FC?

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Bloemfontein Celtic return under new owner, declare war on Siwelele FC?

Bloemfontein Celtic Football Club is officially back under new ownership, and the move could have major consequences for Siwelele FC and the broader Free State football landscape.

In a media statement released on 17 November 2025, Celtic confirmed that businessman Tshilo Mahatanya has taken over as owner of the club as of 16 October 2025. Mahatanya is no stranger to the Celtic legacy, he is the nephew of Victor “Oujaan” Mahatanya, one of the club’s original founders alongside Norman Mathobisa in 1969. This development signals what Celtic calls “an authentic return” to its roots, promising a new era grounded in heritage and tradition.

Protecting the Celtic Name

The statement also warned against the unauthorized use of the Bloemfontein Celtic name on social media and other platforms. The club has given account holders until 12 December 2025 to engage with its communications team or risk permanent suspension. Official social media accounts will be announced after verification.

Community Engagement

Celtic plans to reconnect with its loyal fan base through a public engagement session on Sunday, 14 December 2025, at the Dr. Rantlai Petrus Molemela Indoor Sport Center in Rocklands, Bloemfontein. The meeting will outline the club’s vision and future plans.

Bloemfontein Football Landscape: Three Clubs, One Fanbase

In an unprecedented twist, Bloemfontein will soon host three professional clubs:

  • Marumo Gallants, who relocated to Bloemfontein from Limpopo
  • Siwelele FC, formed after Sport Minister’s son Cavin Le John purchased SuperSport United and rebranded it in Celtic’s iconic green and white colors
  • The revived Bloemfontein Celtic, now under Tshilo Mahatanya’s leadership

All three clubs will be competing for the same passionate Siwelele fanbase, creating a unique dynamic in South African football.

For Siwelele FC, which positioned itself as the spiritual successor to Celtic, this development raises serious questions about identity, loyalty, and commercial viability.

Will fans return to the original Celtic? Could there be legal disputes over branding? Or will Bloemfontein become a football powerhouse with three thriving teams?

One thing is clear: the battle for the hearts of the Siwelele faithful has officially begun.

<!-- Author Start -->Willis Sob<!-- Author End -->

Willis Sob

Author

Willis Sob is an experienced journalist who has been in the game since 2009, covering major assignments around the continent.
His hunger for African football is unmatched, always getting the best angles and facts to feed the fans and quench their thirst.

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