Full Name: Irvin Khoza
Nickname: The Iron Duke
Date of Birth: 27 January 1948
Place of Birth: Alexandra Township, Johannesburg, South Africa
Education: University of Fort Hare (did not complete)
Spouse: Matina Khoza (late)
Profession: Football Administrator, Businessman
Honours: Order of Ikhamanga (Silver), Honorary Doctorates (University of Zululand, University of Fort Hare)
Early Life and Education
Born in Alexandra Township and raised in Soweto, Irvin Khoza grew up during apartheid South Africa. Despite financial and systemic challenges, he pursued education at the University of Fort Hare, a breeding ground for African intellectuals and political leaders. Though he didn’t complete his studies, Khoza’s sharp mind and strategic thinking would later define his legacy in South African football.
Rise in Football Administration
Irvin Khoza’s journey in football began in Alexandra Township, where he played for local amateur teams, first with Lijabatho FC and later with Alexandra Blackpool. Football ran in his family—his uncle, Lucas Khoza, was a prominent figure in the South African Soccer League (SASL) and helped shape the sport during its formative years.
Inspired by his uncle’s leadership, Irvin Khoza began showing his own potential early on, eventually becoming the secretary of the Magwaza Division, the youth development arm of the Alexandra Football Association.
His first steps into football administration came when he was appointed as a cashier at major soccer matches, including games hosted by Orlando Pirates. Known for his dedication, he would often be seen working at the gates in blue overalls, collecting entry fees—a humble beginning that laid the groundwork for his future in the sport.
Outside football, Khoza built his wealth through property investments, but it was his return to football management that truly elevated his profile. In the 1980s, he briefly served as Orlando Pirates’ secretary, and by the 1990s, he had come back to rescue the club during a severe financial crisis. He became the chairperson of Orlando Pirates in 1991. Under his leadership, he not only stabilized the organization but transformed Orlando Pirates into one of South Africa’s well, professionally-run football businesses.
Under Khoza’s leadership, Orlando Pirates became the first South African club to win the CAF Champions League in 1995, cementing the club’s status as a continental giant.
Founding the Premier Soccer League (PSL)
One of Khoza’s greatest contributions to football was co-founding the Premier Soccer League (PSL) in 1996 alongside Kaizer Motaung and others. The PSL replaced the National Soccer League and elevated South African domestic football into a commercially viable and internationally recognized league.
As Chairman of the PSL, Khoza introduced:
– Major sponsorship deals
– Professional broadcast rights
– Structured club licensing and governance
The PSL is now one of the top leagues in Africa, both financially and competitively. Khoza revealed that when they took over the PSL in 1995, it was making a revenue of R300 000 a year. They have since taken the league to a place where it generates over a billion rand a year.
2010 FIFA World Cup – Bringing the World to Africa
Irvin Khoza served as the Chairperson of the 2010 FIFA World Cup Local Organising Committee, playing a key role in bringing the tournament to African soil for the first time. He worked closely with the government and international partners to ensure the success of the tournament, which was hailed globally for its vibrancy and efficiency.
The tournament also resulted in infrastructure upgrades such as:
– FNB Stadium revamp
– New stadiums in Durban, Cape Town, Port Elizabeth
– Improved transport and telecommunications systems
Business Interests and Influence
Beyond football, Irvin Khoza is a successful businessman involved in media and entertainment. He was influential in securing lucrative broadcasting deals for the PSL with Supersport and SABC, making football accessible across the country.
He is often consulted by political leaders, business executives, and global football stakeholders for his strategic insight.
Irvin Khoza, Kaizer Motaung and Jomo Sono honoured by the Johannesburg Stock Exchange for their contribution to the development of football and business.
Other Businesses:
Marble Gold 261
Nevisian Trading
Bophirimile Investment Holdings
Global Foreign Exchange
Boitshepo Investment
Honours and Awards
Dr. Irvin Khoza’s leadership has earned him numerous accolades:
– Order of Ikhamanga (Silver) – For excellence in sports administration
– Honorary Doctorate – University of Zululand
– Honorary Doctorate – University of Fort Hare
– PSL Chairman’s Award
– CAF Recognition Award
– South African Sports Hall of Fame Inductee
– Named one of South Africa’s most influential people in sport and business
Legacy and Leadership
Khoza’s legacy is deeply intertwined with the transformation of South African football. His nickname, The Iron Duke, reflects his disciplined leadership style and determination to elevate South African football onto the global stage.
He continues to lead:
– Orlando Pirates Football Club as its Chairman
– Premier Soccer League as its long-standing Chairman
– Serves as Vice-President of the South African Football Association (SAFA)
He is known for his behind-the-scenes diplomacy, boardroom negotiations, and unwavering commitment to the beautiful game.
With Jomo Sono and Kaizer Motaung.
Personal Life
Dr. Irvin Khoza was married to the late Matina Khoza, and he is a father and grandfather. His children have followed various professional paths. Despite his public role, Khoza is known for being private about his family life.
In 2020, he mourned the loss of his wife and two children, events that were covered widely in South African media and received national condolences.
Perhaps the most known of Khoza’s children are Zodwa and Nkosana. Zodwa was the club’s Brand Manager before she sadly passed away in 2006. Nkosana is currently the Marketing Manager of Orlando Pirates.
With his daughter, Zodwa Khoza:
Summary Profile
Name: Dr. Irvin Khoza
Date of Birth: 27 January 1948
Place of Birth: Alexandra Township, Johannesburg
Role: Chairman – Orlando Pirates FC, Chairman – Premier Soccer League
Nicknames: The Iron Duke
Major Contributions:
– Co-founder of the PSL (1996)
– Led Orlando Pirates to CAF Champions League glory (1995)
– Chairperson of 2010 FIFA World Cup Local Organising Committee
– Architect of modern football broadcasting and commercialization in South Africa
– Multiple national and international honours for sports leadership
