2 January 2021 – The South African Football Association (SAFA) has joined millions of South Africans in mourning the passing away of two prominent sports persons – Athletic South Africa former President, Leonard Chuene and former Kaizer Chiefs captain, Ryder Mofokeng.

Chuene died on Friday, 1 January 2021 while Mofokeng passed away on Saturday, 2 January 2021.

Former Athletics South Africa (ASA) president, Leonard Chuene was credited with founding the popular Soweto Marathon and was an honorary member of the ultra-marathon, Comrades Marathon.

He competed in 12 Comrades Marathons between 1987 and 2000 and won several accolades in the process.

He was also the long-standing chairperson of the Diepkloof Athletic Club in Soweto.

“Apart from being an established sports administrator, Chuene played a leading role in integrating various splintered sporting bodies into a single entity after the new dispensation. This is a massive loss to South Africa,’’ said SAFA President, Dr Danny Jordaan.

Meanwhile, Dr Jordaan said SAFA was devastated by news of the passing away of Johannes ‘Ryder’ Mofokeng, Kaizer Chiefs longest serving captain.

The club (Kaizer Chiefs) announced on their social media platforms that Mofokeng had passed away on Saturday.

‘’What a sombre way to welcome 2021; two respected sports people passing away in successive days. We mourn together with their families and friends. ‘’The two esteemed men have run their race and may their souls rest in peace.’’

For further information please contact:

SAFA: Head of Communications

Dominic Chimhavi

Email: dominic.chimhavi@safa.net

Mobile: +27 71 332 9886