Stellenbosch FC, a rising force in South African football, has scored a major victory off the pitch with the announcement of a massive R395 million investment into a brand-new multi-purpose stadium and sports development at the Van der Stel Sports Complex. The news comes as the club prepares for a historic second-leg clash in Egypt against Zamalek SC in the CAF Confederation Cup quarterfinals.
With the tie delicately poised following a goalless draw at the DHL Stadium in Cape Town, this bold infrastructure project signals a new chapter for the Winelands-based outfit, further cementing their long-term ambitions both locally and on the continent.
Home Ground Woes Spark Visionary Development
Stellenbosch FC has struggled to host home matches during this CAF campaign, forced to play “home” fixtures in Pretoria and Durban due to the Danie Craven Stadium, Athlone Stadium, and DHL Stadium being unavailable or unsuitable for football use at crucial times.
To address this, the club has partnered with the Stellenbosch Municipality to launch a multi-phase project that will reshape the local sporting landscape. The initial phase includes a 5,000-seat stadium, designed to be expandable to 10,000 seats, four international-standard full-size football fields, six small-sided multi-purpose courts, and a range of high-performance sporting facilities.
According to the agreement, Stellenbosch FC will manage and develop the complex over a 30-year period, while ownership remains with the municipality. The investment is being made over five years, with the goal of establishing a sustainable and inclusive hub for sports in the region.
Building More Than a Stadium
Beyond football, the project’s scope includes a sports high school for 200 learners, a 150-bed residence for student-athletes, and a 300-meter grass athletics track. The school will offer a combination of quality education and elite sports coaching, targeting multiple sporting codes.
Funding support for students will be provided by the ACE Trust, which will offer full bursaries to deserving learners while also welcoming commercially funded talent. Additional infrastructure plans include a 600-800 bay multi-storey parking facility, making the venue accessible for large-scale events and daily usage.
Speaking on the announcement, Stellenbosch FC CEO Rob Benadie emphasized the importance of long-term vision and community commitment.
“We are grateful to the Municipality and the community of Stellenbosch for the opportunity to manage and develop this landmark complex over the next 30 years,” Benadie said.
“Football is the town’s only sport code with a professional club that plays in national leagues across men’s, women’s, and youth divisions. This complex will be a home not just for the club, but for future generations of athletes and supporters in Stellenbosch.”
Sport as a Catalyst for Growth
Benadie also stressed the broader purpose behind the project, framing sport as a powerful enabler for socio-economic development.
“We believe sport is the empowering catalyst for progress, inclusive economic growth, and opportunity. This development will create lasting value in a public asset that future generations can be proud of.”
The announcement has added further motivation for Steve Barker’s squad, who are currently in Egypt preparing for a critical encounter against Zamalek. The match is scheduled to kick off at 6pm South African time on Wednesday, with a semifinal place on the line.
While the Van der Stel Sports Complex might not host CAF-level matches immediately, the long-term vision is clear: Stellenbosch FC is here to stay — and grow.
