Founded in 1937 in Orlando East, Soweto, Orlando Pirates began as a community team formed by schoolboys and young workers. Originally named the Orlando Boys Club, they later adopted the name "Pirates" to reflect their bold spirit and growing reputation.
Throughout the 1940s and 1950s, the club steadily built its identity, becoming a symbol of pride for black South Africans during a time of racial segregation. By the 1960s, Pirates had established themselves as a dominant force in local football, known for their flair and passionate fan base.
The 1970s and 1980s saw the club evolve into a professional outfit, winning major trophies and nurturing legendary players. Their influence extended beyond the pitch, becoming a cultural icon in South Africa.
In 1995, Orlando Pirates made history by becoming the first South African club to win the CAF Champions League, a landmark achievement that cemented their status on the continent.
Over the decades, the club has continued to thrive, collecting numerous domestic titles and maintaining a fierce rivalry with Kaizer Chiefs in the famous Soweto Derby. Today, Orlando Pirates stands as one of the most successful and beloved football clubs in Africa, with a legacy built on resilience, excellence, and community pride.
THE 1990S - GOLDEN YEARS
CAF Champions League Victory (1995) This was the crown jewel of the decade. Orlando Pirates became the first South African club to win the CAF Champions League, defeating ASEC Mimosas of Ivory Coast in the final. This triumph catapulted the club onto the continental stage and remains one of their most celebrated achievements.
CAF Super Cup Win (1996) Following their Champions League success, Pirates clinched the CAF Super Cup in 1996, further solidifying their dominance in African football.
Domestic League Title (1993/94) They captured the South African Championship in the 1993/94 season, showcasing their strength on home soil and setting the tone for their continental success.
Nedbank Cup (1995/96) Adding to their trophy haul, Pirates lifted the Nedbank Cup (then known as the Bob Save Super Bowl), demonstrating their consistency across competitions.
Record Victory (1999) In a stunning display of firepower, Pirates recorded a 9–1 win over Olympics FC in the Bob Save Super Bowl, one of the club’s biggest-ever victories.
Strong League Performance The club registered 19 victories in the 1990 season, and in 1994, they had one of their most defensively solid campaigns with only 3 defeats.
PROFESSIONALISATION & INFRASTRUCTURE GROWTH
The club’s success demanded a more professional setup. Pirates invested in better training facilities, scouting networks, and youth development programs to sustain their competitive edge. This laid the groundwork for future stars and long-term stability.
FAN BASE EXPANSION
The 1990s victories galvanised support beyond Soweto. Pirates became a national symbol of pride, drawing fans from across South Africa and even abroad. Their matches—especially the Soweto Derby—became cultural events.
LEADERSHIP & VISION
Chairman Dr Irvin Khoza, who played a pivotal role during this era, used the momentum to steer the club into a more strategic and commercially savvy direction. His leadership helped Pirates become one of the most professionally run clubs in the country.
LEGACY OF WINNING MENTALITY
The club’s identity became synonymous with resilience and ambition. That legacy continues to influence how Pirates approach every season—with the expectation to compete for titles and uphold their rich history.
Domestic League Titles (PSL Champions)
9-time South African Champions: 1970/71, 1972/73, 1974/75, 1975/76, 1993/94, 2000/01, 2002/03, 2010/11, 2011/12
Nedbank Cup (South African FA Cup)
10-time winners: 1973, 1974, 1975, 1979/80, 1987/88, 1995/96, 2010/11, 2013/14, 2022/23, 2023/24
MTN8 Cup (Top 8 Knockout)
13-time winners: 1972/73, 1973/74, 1978/79, 1983/84, 1993/94, 1996/97, 2000/01, 2010/11, 2011/12, 2020/21, 2022/23, 2023/24, 2024/25
Telkom Knockout Cup
- 2-time winners: 1999/00, 2010/11
South African Cup Winner
- 1-time winner: 2011/12
Black Label Cup
- 1-time winner: 2019
Continental Titles
- CAF Champions League: 1995
- CAF Super Cup: 1996
Notable Records
- Record Victory: 9–1 v Olympics FC (1999)
- Most Goals in a Season: Denis Lota – 23 goals (2000)
- All-Time Top Scorer: Benedict Vilakazi – 52 goals