Former Mamelodi Sundowns defender Lyle Lakay has been spotted at newly-promoted Motsepe Foundation Championship side Hope FC after leaving Siwelele FC.
The 34-year-old was released by Siwelele in June, making him a free agent. This was after a season at the Bloemfontein-based side. He was part of their project after they assumed the Betway Premiership franchise of SuperSport United.
His departure from Siwelele was not surprising after he made just 10 league appearances last season. He did not feature in any cup games as he struggled for game time. But with coach Lehlohonolo Seema’s side transferring left-back Neo Rapoo to Orlando Pirates, Lakay appeared to have been an option for next season despite his age.
However, he was shipped off while Aphiwe Baliti was brought back on loan at Siwelele. Baliti was initially sold to the Buccaneers with Rapoo.
EX-MAMELODI SUNDOWNS DEFENDER LYLE LAKAY BACK IN HIS HOME TOWN
Hailing from Cape Town, Lakay is back in the Western Cape. This is the same province where he previously turned out for Cape Town City FC. The defender is now looking to revive his career with Hope FC. The club is set to debut in the professional ranks of the Motsepe Foundation Championship for the upcoming 2026/27 season.
The ambitious club will be bidding for immediate promotion to the Betway Premiership during their first season in the second tier. Lakay featured for Hope FC in a friendly match against Cape Town City on Saturday.
Boasting over 10 years of playing professional football, plus representing Bafana Bafana, Lakay’s experience would be something Hope FC could bank on. They already has the likes of Ruzaigh Gamildien and former Orlando Pirates star Craig Martin in their books.
Ex-Sundowns and Ajax Cape Town defender Clayton Daniels was one of the players who helped Hope FC gain promotion into the Motsepe Foundation Championship. This was via the ABC Motsepe League National Playoffs.
Roping in experienced players underlines Hope FC’s intentions to play top-flight league football.
RELATED STORY: Lyle Lakay makes honest admission about his form
