Chippa United have officially confirmed their return to the Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium for their Betway Premiership encounter against Kaizer Chiefs, marking the reopening of the 2010 FIFA World Cup venue following extensive renovations.
The Chilli Boys have been operating out of alternative venues across Soweto, Durban, and East London while the Gqeberha landmark underwent a six-month structural upgrade. However, the Eastern Cape outfit announced on Tuesday that the facility will host the Soweto giants on 28 November 2026.
The Eastern Cape outfit announced on Tuesday that the World Cup facility will reopen specifically to host the high-profile fixture against Amakhosi on Saturday, 28 November 2026.
“Chippa United Football Club is pleased to confirm its return to Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium for the highly anticipated fixture against Kaizer Chiefs,” the club stated.
CHIPPA UNITED’S STATEMENT ON NELSON MANDELA BAY RETURN
“The match will form part of the stadium’s reopening following more than six months of renovations. Although the Club’s long-term partnership agreement with the Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality has not yet been renewed, Chippa United has continued to engage constructively with the Mandela Bay Development Agency.
“The Club appreciates the Agency’s efforts to facilitate its return and ensure that this marquee fixture is staged in Nelson Mandela Bay. A recommendation to extend the partnership for a further three years could not be finalised before the outgoing Council concluded its term.”
CHIPPA CALL ON LOCAL AUTHORITIES TO PRIORITISE LONG-TERM STADIUM AGREEMENT
Despite the temporary return, Chippa United emphasised their desire to secure a permanent deal to remain in Gqeberha under the incoming municipal administration.
“Chippa United remains committed to the people of Nelson Mandela Bay and will honour this fixture in the hope that the incoming Council will prioritise and conclude a sustainable long-term agreement with the club,” the statement added.
“The presence of Chippa United in Nelson Mandela Bay contributes to local economic activity, tourism, employment, community pride, and the continued development of football throughout the Eastern Cape. The Club therefore calls upon the incoming Council to recognise the social and economic importance of professional football.”
The Brandon Truter-led side also used the opportunity to urge football enthusiasts and community members to exercise their democratic rights in Wednesday’s Local Government Elections.
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