Full Name: Dr. Petrus Rantlai Molemela
Nickname: “Whitehead”
Date of Birth: April 1933
Place of Birth: Sannaspos, South Africa
Date of Death: 26 March 2017
Place of Death: Bloemfontein, South Africa
Profession: Business Tycoon, Football Club Owner
Notable Contributions: Founder of Bloemfontein Celtic, Molemela Construction Company, Dr. R.P. Molemela Stadium
Early Life
Born in Sannaspos in April 1933, Dr. Petrus Rantlai Molemela was raised in a rural environment without formal schooling. Despite these limitations, he taught himself to read and write. Known for his determination and physical endurance, he would cycle over 40 kilometers daily between Sannaspos and Bloemfontein.
Business Career
During the apartheid era, Molemela broke numerous racial and social barriers to build a business empire. He founded Molemela Construction Company, winning major contracts, including building the Bloemfontein Magistrate’s Court. He became the first black South African to own a hotel — the Molemela Hotel in Phahameng township. He also owned multiple petrol stations and was regarded as a pioneer in township entrepreneurship.
Football Career
In 1975, Molemela took over the financially struggling Mangaung United and transformed it into Bloemfontein Celtic Football Club. Under his leadership:
- The club turned fully professional
- Players received full-time salaries — a South African first
- He recruited talent across the continent, including players from Malawi, Mozambique, and Lesotho
Ernest Chirwali.
In 1985, Celtic lifted the Mainstay Cup after defeating African Wanderers 2-1.
Infamous Moments:
On 16 August 1989, during a match against Leeds United, Molemela clashed with Celtic coach Dave Roberts on the sidelines, preventing a substitution. The incident caused pandemonium on the bench and is still remembered as a testament to Molemela’s fiery passion for the club.
Another incident saw Molemela invade the pitch during a game against African Wanderers, pretending to carry a weapon in his coat while chasing the referee — halting the match temporarily. He was suspended by the PSL for this.
He once even used a knobkerrie to deal with unruly fans. Despite controversies, he remained Celtic’s Life President and a constant supporter of “Phunya Sele Sele.”
In 2001, after 26 years at the helm, he sold the club to former player Jimmy Augusti for R600,000.
Philanthropy and Community Impact
Molemela continued living in Rocklands township despite his success. He built houses for families at no charge, constructed churches, and contributed generously to his community. He was known for his generosity and strong moral convictions.
Legacy
Dr. Molemela’s contributions to football and business earned national recognition. In 2006, he received an honorary doctorate from the Central University of Technology. In 2015, the renovated Seisa Ramabodu Stadium was renamed the Dr. Petrus Molemela Stadium in his honor.
He was praised by figures such as Sports Minister Fikile Mbalula and SAFA President Danny Jordaan. Biographer Charley Pietersen described him as “the Nelson Mandela of South African football.”
Personal Life
Molemela was married to Mme Mamorwesi Molemela for 61 years until her death in 2015. He is survived by five children, 24 grandchildren, and 18 great-grandchildren. His grandson Lerato Molemela has spoken fondly of his legacy.
Summary Profile
- Name: Dr. Petrus Rantlai Molemela
- Born: April 1933 – Sannaspos, South Africa
- Died: 26 March 2017 – Bloemfontein, South Africa
- Profession: Businessman, Football Club Owner, Philanthropist
Key Contributions:
- Founder of Bloemfontein Celtic FC
- Established Molemela Construction Company
- Builder and benefactor of township homes and churches
- Namesake of Dr. R.P. Molemela Stadium
- Pioneer in professionalizing South African football
