Orlando Pirates have issued an official statement regarding a viral video featuring two of their players discussing sports betting, prompting an internal investigation. The video, which has been circulating on social media, shows goalkeeper Sipho Chaine talking about placing a bet on the Manchester United vs Arsenal match on May 12.
In their statement, the Pirates clarified that the players did not actually place any bets, describing the incident as a light-hearted interaction among teammates. However, the club has addressed the issue with the players involved, who have since apologized.
“The Club has noted a video circulating on social media involving two of our players discussing betting,” the statement reads. “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.”
Orlando Pirates emphasized the strict prohibition of betting for professional players and highlighted the serious implications such discussions can have, even if made in jest. The club reiterated the importance of adhering to betting regulations to avoid any potential long-term consequences.
“The players recognize their error in judgment and have since apologized. However, due to the seriousness of this matter, the Club has instituted its own internal investigation to ensure that no player is involved in any form of sports betting as this would constitute a breach in the club handbook that all players are signatory to,” the statement concluded.
The incident has raised questions about whether the Premier Soccer League (PSL) should take further action against the players involved or leave the matter in the hands of the club, which has already taken steps to address the issue.
