Orlando Pirates have confirmed that their head coach, Abdeslam Ouaddou, and five members of the club’s staff were involved in a road traffic accident this Sunday.
The incident happened on the R21 highway as the Soweto giants were travelling back to Johannesburg from Gqeberha, where they had just secured a decisive 3-0 victory against Chippa United in the Betway Premiership.
According to a club statement, the accident occurred after the team bus encountered an earlier collision involving two other vehicles. Coach Ouaddou and several staff members exited the bus to provide assistance to the individuals involved.
Tragically, while they were on the scene, a Nissan NP200 crashed into the stationary vehicles, striking Ouaddou and his colleagues and causing severe injuries.
The six injured individuals were immediately transported to a nearby hospital, where they are currently receiving medical care. The club has not yet provided further details on their condition, but has asked for privacy for those involved as they focus on their recovery.
ORLANDO PIRATES’ OFFICIAL STATEMENT ON THE INCIDENT
“Orlando Pirates Football Club can confirm that Head Coach Abdeslam Ouaddou and five members of the club’s staff were involved in a road traffic incident on Sunday night,” reads the club statement.
“The incident occurred on the R21 highway as the team returned from Gqeberha, following their hard-fought 3–0 victory against Chippa United. Upon encountering a collision between two vehicles, Coach Ouaddou and several staff members disembarked from the team bus to assist those involved. Tragically, while attending to the scene, a Nissan NP200 vehicle collided with the stationary vehicles, striking the group and causing serious injuries.
“Coach Ouaddou, along with the five affected staff members, were immediately transported to the hospital, where they are currently receiving medical care. The Club is in close contact with the medical team and will provide updates on their recovery in due course.
“At this stage, our priority is the health and well-being of our colleagues. The Club has made arrangements to ensure that the affected individuals and their families receive all the necessary support during this difficult time.
“We ask for privacy and respect for those involved as they focus on recovery. Further updates will be communicated when appropriate.”
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