Orlando Pirates chairman Irvin Khoza has outlined the vision behind the recent partnership renewal with the global sportswear giant Adidas, emphasizing that the bond between the ‘Buccaneers’ and the ‘Three Stripes’ is far from a standard business arrangement.
The Sea Robbers and Adidas have extended their commitment to stability and shared ambition for another five years.
The club confirmed the exciting news on Thursday, 12 February 2026. Khoza stated that the partnership renewal is a testament to the cultural and strategic alignment between the two brands.
Meanwhile, the renewal marks a 30-year milestone, which places the Pirates-Adidas marriage in an elite bracket of sporting partnerships, alongside the likes of Bayern Munich and Real Madrid.
WHAT PIRATES CHAIRMAN IRVIN KHOZA SAID ABOUT ADIDAS PARTNERSHIP EXTENSION
Khoza noted that the history between the two brands will help the club achieve their “beyond borders” vision.
“Our relationship with adidas transcends that of a traditional sponsor. It is a partnership built on mutual trust, shared values, and a collective ambition to grow the Orlando Pirates brand beyond borders,” said the club’s chairman, Khoza.
“Reaching 30 years together is a rare achievement in world sport, and this renewal reflects our confidence in continuing this journey side by side.”
ORLANDO PIRATES’ OFFICIAL STATEMENT ON ADIDAS RENEWAL
“Orlando Pirates Football Club is proud to announce the renewal of its long-standing partnership with global sportswear leader adidas for a further five years, extending one of the most iconic and enduring relationships in African football,” reads the club’s statement.
“Following extensive and considered deliberations between both organisations, the renewed agreement reinforces a shared commitment to performance excellence, innovation, and the continued growth of the Orlando Pirates brand on the global stage.
“First established in 1996, the collaboration between Adidas and the Buccaneers has become synonymous with some of the most memorable moments in the club’s modern history. The 2026 season marks the 30th anniversary of this partnership; a significant milestone that cements it as one of the longest-running technical sponsorships in South African sport.
“For three decades, Adidas has played an integral role in the club’s journey, providing world-class performance apparel, pioneering kit designs, and merchandise that resonate deeply with generations of supporters both locally and internationally.
“This renewed agreement ensures that Orlando Pirates players, technical staff, supporters and management will continue to benefit from adidas’ cutting-edge innovation, premium quality, and globally recognised design expertise.
“The extension also signals both organisations’ intent to deepen collaboration across multiple areas, including high-performance wear, retail expansion, supporter engagement, and lifestyle collections that celebrate the rich heritage and culture of the club.”
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