LaLiga and Royal Bafokeng Sports (RBS) have unveiled the Royal Bafokeng Sports LaLiga Academy, a landmark project bringing world-class youth football development to South Africa.
Based at The Sports Campus Marang in Phokeng, the academy features six natural grass pitches, two artificial turf pitches, a 7v7 pitch, and a High Performance Centre.
Around 100 players will be enrolled across U14, U15, U17, U19, and senior divisions, guided by LaLiga’s proven methodology under a UEFA Pro Licence Technical Director.
The initiative supports the Royal Bafokeng Nation’s Vision 2035, which prioritises sport as a driver of community empowerment.
Players will combine elite training with academic stability, competing in local and regional competitions enhanced by advanced performance analysis.
Trésor Penku, LaLiga Africa MD, said the project reflects “a shared commitment to sustainable youth football development in Africa.”
Emile Smith, Acting RBS MD, called it “a major milestone in creating opportunities for aspiring athletes through world-class coaching and mentorship.”
LaLiga has delivered over 900 international projects in 60 countries, and academy-trained players now account for nearly 20% of minutes in Europe’s top leagues.
