RB Leipzig will travel to South Africa for the first time in the club’s history this May. They will set up a high profile friendly against Premier Soccer League champions Mamelodi Sundowns.
The German Bundesliga side will be based in Johannesburg from 26 to 30 May 2026 as part of its international tour titled “Re Kaofela”, which means “all together”. This visit marks the club’s third major international tour after trips to the United States in 2024 and Brazil in 2025.
RB Leipzig vs Mamelodi Sundowns set for Pretoria
The headline event of the tour will see RB Leipzig take on Mamelodi Sundowns on 29 May 2026 at Lucas Moripe Stadium in Pretoria. Moreover, kick off is scheduled for 20:00 local time and the match will be broadcast live on SABC3.
The clash brings together two clubs known for their strong football cultures and commitment to developing talent. Furthermore, Sundowns are one of the most successful teams in South African football and have also competed on the global stage, including at the FIFA Club World Cup.
RB Leipzig General Manager Johann Plenge says the club is excited to engage with local fans and experience the country’s football culture firsthand.
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“South Africa is a particularly exciting football market and a culturally impressive destination for RB Leipzig and the Bundesliga,” he said. “The passion with which football is lived here fits perfectly with our goal of inspiring people around the world with our intensive and attacking style of play.” Plenge added that the tour will also help strengthen the club’s global partnerships. Additionally, it will expand its footprint in new markets.
Sundowns ready to showcase South African football
Mamelodi Sundowns ambassador and former captain Hlompho Kekana believes the match will offer a great opportunity to highlight South African football on the international stage.
“We look forward to welcoming a formidable side like RB Leipzig to Pretoria,” said Kekana. “Having captained Mamelodi Sundowns against Barcelona here in South Africa in 2018, I know the players will be competitive. This is another chance for us to showcase our football flair and the hospitality of our country.”
Kekana also hinted that fans can expect a lively matchday atmosphere, with several stadium activities planned around the fixture. “We cannot wait to display our style of play, shoe shine and piano, to the world once again,” he added.
Why Lucas Moripe Stadium matters
The friendly will take place at Lucas Moripe Stadium in Atteridgeville, a venue steeped in South African football history. The stadium is named after legendary player Lucas “Masterpieces” Moripe, widely regarded as one of the country’s greatest talents.
Moripe earned the nickname Modimo wa Bolo, meaning “Lord of Football”, from fans who admired his exceptional skill. During his career, he played internationally in Hong Kong and locally for Pretoria Bantu Callies. In addition, the stadium also played a role during the 2010 FIFA World Cup, when the German national team used the venue as a training facility.
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For Sundowns supporters and the surrounding communities, Lucas Moripe Stadium remains an important cultural landmark and a fitting venue for a match that connects South African and German football.
RB Leipzig continues global expansion
The South African tour forms part of RB Leipzig’s wider strategy to build a global presence and strengthen connections with fans around the world.
Previous international tours have included not only friendly matches but also community engagement initiatives such as youth training sessions, coaching programmes, school visits and collaborations with local clubs.
During the South African visit, RB Leipzig will also work alongside partners including Red Bull, Puma and Tudor. Together, they will host several activations and events in the region.
