Betway Premiership side Marumo Gallants have confirmed the suspension of head coach Alexandre Lafitte with immediate effect.
Lafitte arrived at the club at the beginning of the current season to take over from Abdeslam Ouaddou, who left to join Orlando Pirates.
The 28-year-old enjoyed a stellar start to his life at the club. Under the guidance of Lafitte, Gallants embarked on a memorable run to the Carling Knockout Cup final, where they ultimately suffered a narrow 1-0 defeat at the hands of their former mentor, Ouaddou, and his Pirates side.
However, Gallants find themselves in the midst of a worrying freefall, having failed to secure a victory in seven consecutive matches—a barren run stretching back to December 2025. Their latest setback came this past Sunday, 1 March. They suffered a defeat at the hands of Durban City FC in the Betway Premiership.
MARUMO GALLANTS EXPLAIN THE SUSPENSION OF THEIR HEAD COACH ALEXANDRE LAFITTE
The club released an official statement on Monday confirming the suspension of the French-born coach, Lafitte. The club says his suspension is a result of a failure to comply with contractual duties.
“Marumo Gallants FC confirms that head coach Alexandre Lafitte has been suspended with immediate effect, pending an internal disciplinary process,” said club spokesperson Sello Nduna. “The suspension follows issues relating to a failure to comply with contractual duties. The club has also not been performing to the expected standard in recent fixtures.”
“The club takes matters of governance, professionalism, and accountability seriously. As such, the necessary internal processes are being followed in line with the Club’s policies and contractual obligations.
“Management is concerned about the team’s current poor performance and will be announcing the acting head coach in due course.
“Marumo Gallants FC would like to assure its supporters, partners, and stakeholders that team operations continue as normal, and that the team remains fully focused on preparations for the upcoming fixtures.
“The club appreciates the continued support and understanding from its fans and partners during this period. Further communication will be issued if and when appropriate.”
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