Pirates play down betting video as just jest as the club focuses on the chase for second
Orlando Pirates FC has played down any assumptions that the club’s players are involved in sports betting. The club had to release a statement after a couple were seen on a video talking about placing a bet on a football match. Pirates’ focus remains on securing second spot in the DSTV Premiership.
“We would like to clarify that the players in the video did not place any bets. The video captured a light-hearted moment among teammates purporting to have placed a bet on an English Premiership match. As a Club, we are fully aware of the regulations regarding betting. Betting on any sport is strictly prohibited for any professional player. However, we have addressed the matter with the players involved, emphasising that even in jest, such discussions can have serious implications,” part of the statement from the club read.
Goalkeeper Sipho Chaine featured prominently in the video that circulated on social media. Chaine and his unseen mates are urging each other to place a bet on the Manchester United versus Arsenal game with the hope of winning “R600.” The club has launched an internal investigation to make sure that none of their players are involved in betting.
Pirates are in a tight race with Stellenbosch FC for a CAF Champions League spot-clinching second place in the DSTV Premiership. With two games to go, Bucs are a point behind Stellies and will be sailing for all three against TS Galaxy in Mbombela on Saturday afternoon.
Mbombela Stadium is also the setting for Orlando Pirates’ sold-out Nedbank Cup final against league champions Mamelodi Sundowns. This blockbuster guarantees African football for Jose Riviero and his boys next season. How high they finish on the league table will determine which CAF Interclub competition Pirates will attempt pillage next season.
