King Misuzulu kaZwelithini has officially withdrawn from attending the Soweto Derby between Kaizer Chiefs and Orlando Pirates, set to take place on Saturday, 10 May 2025, at Moses Mabhida Stadium in Durban.
King Misuzulu blasts PSL for failing to prepare for his attendance
This development was confirmed in a letter from the King’s Private Office, issued on Friday.
The statement, signed by Chief Director Squire Arnold Nododile, made clear that the King’s attendance at the Nedbank Cup final would not proceed due to the Premier Soccer League’s (PSL) failure to formally respond to coordination requests sent earlier in the week.
“Royal engagements of this nature require a clear line of coordination and confirmation,” the letter read, explaining that without proper planning, the office could not ensure the safety and dignity expected of a royal appearance.
The King’s concerns are not new. In February this year, King Misuzulu raised alarms over a reduction in his state-provided security. In a letter to President Cyril Ramaphosa, he complained that his protection team had been cut without warning, despite being granted the same level of security afforded to a former head of state.
“Given the prevailing tensions within the royal house, my security threat level remains extremely high,” he wrote.
These worries follow previous incidents, including alleged threats to his life and a poisoning scare in 2023, which the King later downplayed as a routine health check.
Nevertheless, disputes within the Zulu royal family over his kingship continue, and legal battles remain unresolved.
Soweto Derby: Key facts you must know
While the King’s absence is making headlines, the football world is still buzzing with excitement.
The Soweto Derby is one of Africa’s most iconic rivalries, tracing back to 1970. It features two of South Africa’s biggest football clubs, Kaizer Chiefs and Orlando Pirates, who will now face off in the Nedbank Cup final.
This will be the 86th official meeting between the two clubs. Kaizer Chiefs currently lead with 28 wins to Pirates’ 25, and 32 matches have ended in a draw. In the Nedbank Cup specifically, Chiefs have won 8 times while Pirates have 6 wins and 3 draws.
Durban authorities have warned of possible road closures near Moses Mabhida Stadium, although exact routes have not been confirmed. Matchgoers are advised to arrive early and expect delays.
Despite the King’s withdrawal, the match is expected to draw thousands of fans, both at the stadium and at dedicated fan parks in the city.
The derby remains a key moment in South African sport — a passionate event where rivalries are fierce, and the atmosphere electric.
