Full Name: Dr. Kaizer Motaung
Nickname: Chincha Guluva
Date of Birth: 16 October 1944
Birthplace: Orlando East, Soweto
Occupation: Football Club Founder, Former Professional Footballer, Sports Administrator
Known For: Founding Kaizer Chiefs Football Club
Honors: Order of Ikhamanga (Silver), Honorary Doctorate (UCT), South African Sports Hall of Fame
Who is Kaizer Motaung?
Dr. Kaizer Motaung is a legendary figure in South African football, best known as the founder of Kaizer Chiefs Football Club, one of Africa’s most successful and popular soccer teams. Born in Orlando East, Soweto, Motaung’s influence spans across playing, coaching, sports administration, and community development.
Early Life and Football Career
Kaizer Motaung began his football journey at age 16 with Orlando Pirates, where he showcased natural talent as a forward.
In 1968, his life changed when he was signed by the Atlanta Chiefs in the United States’ NASL (North American Soccer League), becoming one of the few South African players to play internationally during apartheid.
Photo Cred: Rodney Pheto.
He made an immediate impact, scoring in his debut against Manchester City. His first season was spectacular—16 goals in 15 matches, earning him the NASL Rookie of the Year title and helping the Atlanta Chiefs win the 1968 championship.
Founding Kaizer Chiefs Football Club
In 1970, after returning to South Africa, Motaung founded Kaizer Chiefs, blending his international experience with local passion. The club was named after both himself and his former American team, the Atlanta Chiefs. Under his leadership, Kaizer Chiefs revolutionized South African soccer with professional management, structured player contracts, and community outreach.
Club Achievements Under Motaung:
- 9 League Titles
- 32 Domestic Cups
- 3 International Titles
- A fanbase of millions across Africa
Kaizer Motaung’s Role in South African Football Development
Beyond his club, Motaung played a critical role in shaping modern South African football:
- 1982 – Helped maintain South Africa’s FIFA ban during apartheid
- 1991 – United racially divided football bodies to form SAFA (South African Football Association)
- 1996 – Co-founded the Premier Soccer League (PSL)
- 2010 – Part of the FIFA World Cup Local Organising Committee, delivering Africa’s first World Cup
With Raymond Hack and Cyril Kobus, challenging the dictatorship of George Thabe.
Awards and Honors
Kaizer Motaung’s lifelong contributions have earned him numerous accolades:
- 🏅 Order of Ikhamanga (Silver) – 2004
- 🎓 Honorary Doctorate – University of Cape Town
- ⚽ SAFA Lifetime Contribution Award
- 🏆 PSL Chairman’s Award
- 🏛️ Inductee – South African Sports Hall of Fame
- 🌍 CAF Recognition – For Pan-African football development
- 🥇 Gauteng Sports Lifetime Achievement Award – 2017
Legacy and the Kaizer Motaung Foundation
Motaung has transformed Kaizer Chiefs into a multimedia brand, including a powerful digital presence, youth academies, and merchandising.
In 2012, he launched the Kaizer Motaung Foundation, which supports education, health care, and youth empowerment in South Africa.
Kaizer Motaung professionalized Kaizer Chiefs and South African football in general. He is a trendsetter. Refer to the History of Kaizer Chiefs page to learn more about how he did that.
Personal Life and Family Involvement
Kaizer Motaung is married to Valeta Motaung and is a proud father. His children play key roles within Kaizer Chiefs:
- Bobby Motaung – Team Manager
- Kaizer Motaung Jr. – Former striker, now Sporting Director
- Jessica Motaung – Marketing Director
- Kemiso Motaung – Head of Digital Operations
In 2019, the Motaung family experienced a personal loss with the passing of his eldest son, Thabo Motaung. His son, Kaizer Jnr, is also a retired professional football player who played in Germany and for Kaizer Chiefs:
Quick Facts
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Born | 16 October 1944, Orlando East, Soweto |
| Playing Career | Orlando Pirates (1960–1968), Atlanta Chiefs (1968–1969) |
| Major Titles as Player | NASL Rookie of the Year, NASL Champion |
| Founded | Kaizer Chiefs Football Club (1970) |
| Key Contributions | SAFA, PSL, 2010 World Cup Committee |
Final Thoughts on Kaizer Motaung
Kaizer Motaung is not just a football legend—he is a trailblazer, visionary, and nation builder. His journey from the dusty fields of Soweto to international glory, and later to founding one of Africa’s biggest football clubs, is a story of determination, leadership, and legacy.
