Jessica Motaung declares bold new era for Chiefs: We’re ready to fight on the continent

Kaizer Chiefs marketing and commercial director Jessica Motaung has never been one to mince her words.

In a candid press briefing at Naturena on Monday morning, she laid bare the club’s ambitions, preparations, and unwavering belief that Amakhosi are on the brink of a new golden era — one stitched not only into their freshly unveiled jersey, but woven deep into the club’s strategic DNA.

The jersey launch was more than a nod to aesthetics. For Motaung, it represents a return to heritage and intent.

“It’s bold, it’s African, it’s combat-ready,” she said of the new Kappa kit. “The collar takes us back to our roots, while the African print sleeves say we’re ready to fight on the continent.”

And fight they must — Kaizer Chiefs have their eyes set on reclaiming dominance not just locally, but across Africa.

The pre-season tour to The Netherlands was, according to Motaung, a resounding success. Based in the quiet town of Apeldoorn, it allowed the technical team to bond and the players — both seasoned and youth — to connect on and off the pitch.

“The environment was serene, perfect for focus,” she said, praising the hunger shown by the youth players and the vital exposure to quality opposition.

The tour also reaffirmed the club’s international pull, with supporters travelling from across Europe — including Manchester and Berlin—to watch the team.

Central to this season’s build-up is the Toyota Cup, where Chiefs are set to take on Ghanaian giants Asante Kotoko. For Motaung, this clash is not just a warm-up — it’s a statement.

“It’s very important for us to win,” she asserted.

“It sets the tone for the season. Every competition, every game is about winning — doing it the Chiefs way.”

Off the pitch, Motaung also paid tribute to the club’s founder and chairman, Kaizer Motaung, who was recently awarded an honorary doctorate by the University of the Witwatersrand.

“It was a significant and emotional moment,” she said, praising his pioneering contribution to the business of football, his entrepreneurial spirit, and his commitment to a strong, sustainable local league. “It’s what’s going to take our country forward,” she noted.

Beyond the men’s game, Chiefs have quietly but intentionally deepened their investment in women’s football through a growing partnership with Springs Home Sweepers.

“They’re young, passionate, and part of our family,” Motaung explained, confirming full commercial, administrative and technical support. “This is just the beginning. We’re playing our part in growing women’s football.”

On the transfer front, Motaung was tight-lipped, particularly regarding rumoured interest in players from Cape Town Spurs and Mamelodi Sundowns.

“We have a professional process. We’ll announce when it’s complete,” she said. “Any new signings go through a full integration — on and off the field — into the Chiefs culture.”

She also reinforced the club’s commitment to being a truly national brand, confirming that while FNB Stadium remains their home ground, Chiefs will continue to play select fixtures at Moses Mabhida and other venues around the country.

“South Africa is our home,” she affirmed.

Her message to the Amakhosi faithful was one of inclusion and gratitude. From sending supporters to Europe with Vodacom, to life-changing competitions with Toyota and SuperSportBET, the club remains intentional about giving back. “Our supporters are the lifeblood of this club. We want them with us every step of the way.”