Kaizer Chiefs star Shabalala lands deal with giant German brand

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Kaizer Chiefs star Shabalala lands deal with giant German brand
Mduduzi Shabalala during Kaizer Chiefs' match against PEC Zwolle. Photo - Kaizer Chiefs

Kaizer Chiefs‘ rising talent, Mduduzi Shabalala, has secured a significant partnership with PUMA South Africa, becoming the local face for the brand’s new ULTRA 7 football boot campaign.

The 22-year-old attacking midfielder is the latest South African football star to join forces with the renowned German sportswear giant. Shabalala, who earned his first cap for Bafana Bafana in October 2025, joins an impressive roster of PUMA-sponsored local athletes.

This lineup includes prominent names such as Teboho Mokoena, Themba Zwane, Iqraam Rayners, Bathusi Aubaas, Malibongwe Khoza, Patrick Maswanganyi, Thapelo Morena, Khuliso Mudau and fellow Chiefs player Mfundo Vilakazi.

Mduduzi Shabalala has signed for PUMA.
Mduduzi Shabalala has signed for PUMA.

PUMA counts on Kaizer Chiefs star to lift brand

Tshepo Mashishi of PUMA SA expressed high hopes for the new partnership. “Mdu’s performances last season were impressive, and we believe that we are signing a player that will be at the forefront of SA football for many years to come,” he stated. “He will drive on-pitch visibility of our ULTRA football boots.”

Mashishi added, “He is a player that has the talent to be a part of the SA national team and become one of the leaders when we are back on the world stage at the 2030 World Cup.”

Kaizer Chiefs' Mduduzi Shabalala and Kaizer Motaung Jr.
Kaizer Chiefs’ Mduduzi Shabalala and Kaizer Motaung Jr. Photo: Kaizer Chiefs

Shabalala shared his enthusiasm for joining the PUMA family, explaining the rationale behind his decision. “My decision was based on how well PUMA’s values, vision and commitment to athletes align with my own goals and journey as a footballer,” he said.

Shabalala confident of successful partnership

“I push myself every day to improve, compete at the highest level and make an impact on and off the pitch. I believe my ambition, work ethic, and passion for the game align perfectly with the brand.”

Mduduzi Shabalala, Kaizer Chiefs vs Bolton Wanderers
Mduduzi Shabalala, Kaizer Chiefs vs Bolton Wanderers. Image: Kaizer Chiefs

The young star will debut the new PUMA ULTRA 7 boots at the start of the upcoming season as Chiefs look to challenge for titles under new coach Fernando da Cruz.

“It’s lightweight, comfortable, and built for speed, which suits my style of play perfectly,” Shabalala commented on his new gear.

<!-- Author Start -->Joel Oliver<!-- Author End -->

Joel Oliver

Author

Joel Oliver is a sports journalist covering South Africa, with 16 years in sports media and a Bachelor's Degree in Communication. Focused on football analysis and responsible gambling, his work has appeared on GOAL and Pulse Sports Kenya, and he is a regular football analyst on TV and radio.

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