Orlando Pirates, affectionately known as the Buccaneers, stand as one of South African football’s most illustrious and financially robust clubs. In the ever-evolving landscape of the Betway Premiership, player salaries are a direct reflection of talent, experience, and market demand. As of 2025, the Soweto giants continue to attract and retain top-tier talent by offering competitive remuneration packages, solidifying their position as a true powerhouse.
How Orlando Pirates Attract Top Talent
The financial muscle of Orlando Pirates is undeniable. The club boasts diverse and lucrative revenue streams, including significant matchday revenue from their passionate fanbase at Orlando Stadium, substantial broadcasting rights from the Betway Premiership, and impactful commercial partnerships. Long-standing agreements with major sponsors like Vodacom, Adidas, and Carling Black Label inject substantial funds into the club, reportedly around R100 million annually from Vodacom alone.
This financial stability allows the Buccaneers to invest heavily in their squad, offering some of the highest salaries in South African football and enabling them to challenge for domestic and continental honours consistently. Indeed, Orlando Pirates’ market value of €21.85 million positions them as the third richest football club on the African continent in 2025.
What Drives Player Salaries in the Betway Premiership?
Player salaries in the Betway Premiership are influenced by a multitude of factors. Performance is paramount, with consistent goal-scorers, playmakers, and defensive stalwarts naturally commanding higher wages. Experience also plays a crucial role; veteran players with a proven track record often out-earn promising youngsters, though exceptional young talent can quickly climb the pay ladder.
A player’s market value, determined by their age, potential, and current form, significantly impacts their earning potential. Furthermore, national team status (especially for Bafana Bafana regulars), the player’s position on the field, the length of their contract, and even their sponsorship and endorsement appeal outside of club duties all contribute to their overall remuneration package.
Orlando Pirates Highest-Paid Players in 2025
While official salary figures are rarely disclosed by clubs or players, credible sports reports and industry insights allow us to estimate the earnings of Orlando Pirates’ top stars in 2025. These figures reflect their invaluable contributions to the club’s ambitions.
Leading the charge in the Buccaneers’ salary hierarchy is Namibian international Deon Hotto, who continues to be a pivotal figure in the Pirates’ attack. He is reportedly earning an estimated monthly salary of R500,000.
Following Hotto, several other key players command impressive figures, reflecting their importance to the squad:
- Deon Hotto: His versatility and consistent performances have reportedly secured him an estimated monthly salary of R500,000.
- Nkosinathi Sibisi: As a cornerstone of the Pirates’ defence, Sibisi’s consistent performances and leadership qualities likely place him among the top earners, with an estimated monthly salary in the range of R150,000 to R200,000.
- Tapelo Xoki: Having recently signed a new contract extension until 2027, Xoki’s increased remuneration is well-deserved given his consistent displays at the back. While specific figures are undisclosed, his new deal is understood to significantly elevate his earnings, likely placing him in a similar bracket, possibly around R150,000 to R250,000 per month.
- Tshegofatso Mabasa: As one of the team’s leading strikers and top goal scorers, Mabasa’s prolific form contributes to his estimated monthly earnings of R120,000 to R180,000.
- Evidence Makgopa: The national team striker, with his aerial presence and finishing ability, is also among the higher earners, estimated to receive between R100,000 and R150,000 per month.
- Relebohile Mofokeng: The young attacking midfielder, a rising star with immense talent and growing influence, has seen his earnings increase significantly, estimated to be in the range of R80,000 to R120,000 per month, with potential for further growth as his career develops.
It’s also worth noting that former Pirates striker Kermit Erasmus, who was previously a high earner at around R350,000 per month, is currently a free agent.
Impact on the Squad and Future Prospects
The generous salaries offered by Orlando Pirates underscore their ambition to remain at the pinnacle of South African football. By investing in top talent and providing competitive compensation, the Buccaneers not only secure the services of pivotal players but also enhance their appeal to prospective signings, ensuring a formidable squad capable of competing for silverware in the highly competitive Betway Premiership for years to come.
DISCLAIMER: Please note that these salaries are only estimates based on the information available. These figures can vary.
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