Ramaphosa made an unexpected visit to the PSL headquarters on Monday, aligning with the final touches for the upcoming local government elections scheduled to take place nationwide in 48 hours.

While Ramaphosa has been busy travelling the country to campaign for the ruling African National Congress (ANC)—in light of voter apprehensions concerning local service delivery and asylum seeker policies—his meeting on Monday was focused specifically on honoring South African football.

In a conversation with SABC News following his meeting with Khoza and the executive team, Ramaphosa highlighted the significant social influence of the league:

“My visit here, as has been customary, is merely to acknowledge the PSL for their accomplishments; they are the most orderly league on the continent,” Ramaphosa stated.

“By managing the country’s most popular sport, which is football, they measure their success through ‘happiness metrics,’ as demonstrated to Nelson [Mandela, the late president].

“He noted that they prioritize the happiness of the community, which is quite accurate. Seventy-seven percent of South Africans enjoy sports and support football.

“Following football, rugby ranks second, but football has always been the dominant sport. Thus, my intention was simply to recognize them for being the most efficiently organized league and for spreading joy to our citizens through their management practices.”

Ramaphosa’s visit took place just days after the iconic Soweto Derby between Orlando Pirates and Kaizer Chiefs, held at FNB Stadium on Saturday.

The match also welcomed the attendance of French football icon Thierry Henry, who was there as a global ambassador for Betway, the league’s main sponsor.

Pirates clinched the 186th edition of the Soweto Derby with a 2-1 victory amidst controversy, as Yanela Mbuthuma’s opening goal led to discussions following replays suggesting the forward might have been offside.

Ramaphosa additionally acknowledged the Soweto Derby, praising its status as one of the foremost football events on the continent and beyond.

“Moreover, the Derby, which I have been informed has been trademarked, is regarded as the best Derby on the continent and globally,” he remarked.

“This represents a significant achievement for us as South Africans, and therefore, I wanted to express, ‘Congratulations, continue your excellent work. We are immensely proud of the PSL and its accomplishments in our country’s football.”

The visit occurs as the PSL commemorates its 30th anniversary since its establishment ahead of the 1996/97 season.