Free State government and football community now preparing to welcome Marumo Gallants again?

The success of the 2026 World Cup qualifier against Zimbabwe, the first Bafana game in Bloemfontein in 14 years, has just reminded the nation about the football craze in this area. With Gallants completing their buying of the Moroka Swallows’ status in the Premier Division, already the talk is about them playing their home matches in Bloemfontein. MEC of Sports, Arts, and Culture in the Free State Makalo Mohale has the latest.

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''Yes indeed, you would remember that before they were relegated - part of the discussions was that they would receive the support or that working relations had they remained in the PSL, now that they are back I wouldn’t divulge much but it is a matter that would still be considered and at the right time the provincial government will make the necessary announcement,'' said Mohale.

Before Gallants got relegated, they played two home matches in Bloemfontein, and the idea was to continue the following season if they were to avoid relegation. Mohale says having a team in the elite league is critical for the province.

 ''Because we understand the importance of having a team in the major league, it has got a serious spin off for the province. Like I said there is a deliberate decision of the provincial government to take an active role in the revival of sport in general, not only football, football being one of those because it is at the fingertip of our people,'' added Mohale.

The recent Bafana Bafana game against Zimbabwe on Tuesday, where an impressive 39,000 tickets were sold out of the 40,000 made available, is a testament to the province's deep-rooted love for football. The area was abuzz with business, and Mohale proudly states that these are the positive economic spin offs they are striving for.

Mohale says efforts were also made to support lower division teams from the province, like D’General in the recent Nedbank Cup campaign and Mangaung Unite, who will be representing Free State in the ABC Motsepe League national playoffs.