Early Business Ventures and Rise to Wealth
Solly and Abe Krok, identical twin brothers born in South Africa, built their initial fortune during the apartheid era by manufacturing and selling skin-lightening creams, most notably “He Man (Double Action)”. The brand later appeared on Mamelodi Sundowns jerseys in the early 1990s as part of the Club’s sponsorship. The Kroks expanded their business empire into retail by owning Ellerines furniture stores and into leisure and hospitality through the creation of Gold Reef Resorts, the parent company of Gold Reef City Casino, Golden Horse Casino, Mykonos Casino, and other high-end entertainment properties.

Good Reef City

They were also instrumental in establishing the Apartheid Museum, a landmark dedicated to the country’s difficult past. Over the years, they grew their wealth and influence, culminating in a $2.23 billion merger in 2011 between Gold Reef Resorts and Tsogo Sun (a unit of SABMiller), forming one of Africa’s largest casino groups. At the time of his death, Abe Krok had a net worth exceeding $200 million.

Involvement in Mamelodi Sundowns (1988–2003)

February 2, 1989 – Acquisition of Sundowns

Amid financial turmoil, Mamelodi Sundowns FC was placed under liquidation by Standard Bank. The Kroks, with their substantial wealth, outbid other interested parties, including Irvin Khoza (then former Orlando Pirates secretary) and his business partner Gregory Mahlangu, to purchase the Club. The Krok brothers (Solly and Abe), in partnership with Angelo and Natasha Tsichlas, bought the Club for R400,000, with the Kroks taking a 51% controlling stake.

Although they became the majority shareholders, the Kroks allowed the Tsichlas family to manage the day-to-day operations of the Club, a gesture that proved vital. This partnership laid the groundwork for Sundowns’ survival and eventual rise to prominence.

Transformation and Golden Era (1989–2003)

Under the stewardship of the Kroks and Tsichlases, Sundowns quickly turned its fortunes around:

• 1989: In their first full season, the Club finished 5th.
• 1990: The Club won a historic treble – the NSL Castle League, BP Top 8, and JPS Cup, led by coach Stanley “Screamer” Tshabalala.
• 1998–2000: The golden run continued with three consecutive league titles under Ted Dumitru.
• 2001: Sundowns reached the CAF Champions League Final, becoming only the second South African team to achieve this feat.

Throughout this era, Solly Krok was a fixture in the stands, known for his unwavering support and belief in the team. His passion for the game and commitment to excellence helped shape the Club’s winning culture.

Photo Provided By Jacob Sibanda

Exit and Legacy (2003–2025)

In 2003, the Kroks sold their 51% stake to Patrice Motsepe, a mining magnate and now one of Africa’s most influential football figures. Motsepe later acquired the remaining 49% from the Tsichlases in 2004, becoming the sole owner. By then, the Kroks had secured Sundowns’ status as a premier South African club and left behind a stable, ambitious organization.

Despite stepping away from ownership, the Kroks maintained a strong legacy within the Club. Abe Krok passed away in 2013 at age 82, having faced health challenges including dementia and Parkinson’s. He was remembered as a sports enthusiast, a philanthropist, and a pioneer in the South African business landscape.

Solly Krok passed away on February 7, 2025, at the age of 95. The Club and wider football community paid heartfelt tributes, emphasizing his instrumental role in saving and elevating Sundowns. His life was celebrated as one filled with vision, generosity, and unwavering love for football.

Legacy in South African Football

• Founding Member of the Premier Soccer League (PSL)
• Chairman of the Mamelodi Sundowns Board for several years
• Mentor and supporter of South African football development
• Philanthropic contributions, including supporting the Apartheid Museum and various community initiatives

Conclusion

Solly and Abe Krok’s 15-year stewardship of Mamelodi Sundowns FC not only rescued the Club from financial ruin but also positioned it for long-term success. From sponsoring the team through their pharmaceutical business to helping Sundowns achieve continental recognition, the Kroks left a lasting imprint on South African football. Their blend of business acumen and sporting passion helped build the foundations on which today’s “Yellow Nation” proudly stands.