Orlando Pirates have confirmed the departures of Bandile Shandu, Tshegofatso Mabasa, Sipho Mbule, Karim Kimvuidi, and Gilberto, all of whom are leaving upon the expiry of their contracts.
The Sea Robbers released the five players whose respective contracts will expire on the 30th of June 2026. Pirates are already preparing for the 2026/27 Betway Premiership season after clinching the league title in the previous campaign.
The Soweto giants announced a squad shake-up on Tuesday morning, addressing the speculation surrounding player departures and new arrivals. Among the notable names leaving Pirates are Bandile Shandu, Karim Kimvuidi, Gilberto, and Tshegofatso Mabasa—the latter having spent the second half of the season on loan at Stellenbosch FC.
Sipho Mbule has also been released after just one season with the Buccaneers, having joined the club in July 2025. Unlike the other departing players who have been at the club for several seasons, Mbule’s exit follows the club’s decision not to exercise the option on his initial one-year contract, which included an extension clause.
ORLANDO PIRATES RELEASE FOUR FIRST-TEAM PLAYERS
“Orlando Pirates Football Club can confirm the departure of five players following the conclusion of the 2025/26 season,” the club said.
“The players who will be leaving the Club upon the conclusion of their respective contracts are Bandile Shandu, Sipho Mbule, Tshegofatso Mabasa, Karim Kimvuidi and Deivi Miguel Vieira [Gilberto]..
“Each of the players departs having contributed to the Orlando Pirates’ journey in their own way, and the Club would like to place on record its appreciation for their service during their time with the Buccaneers.
“Orlando Pirates Football Club thanks Bandile, Sipho, Tshegofatso, Karim and Gilberto for their service and wishes them all the best in the next chapters of their respective careers.”
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