Orlando Pirates launch gold-trimmed adidas kits for 2026/27 Betway Premiership campaign

Orlando Pirates have unveiled new gold-accented adidas home and away kits that pay tribute to Johannesburg’s “City of Gold” heritage, ahead of their 2026/27 Betway Premiership opener against newly promoted Milford FC on Saturday, 1 August.

The defending champions will begin their title defence with supporters expected to fill the stands in the new designs, which also mark the start of the build-up to the club’s 90th anniversary in 2027.

“Every Orlando Pirates jersey tells a story,” said adidas South Africa senior director of brand Tom Brown, as the new strip was presented. This season, that story is framed around gold, pride and a deeper connection to Johannesburg.

Homage to Johannesburg and club heritage

The campaign, created in partnership with adidas, is anchored by a new film that celebrates Johannesburg and generations of Orlando Pirates players and supporters who have worn the club’s famous black and white colours.

Marketing manager for Orlando Pirates, Sindi Khumalo Sibisi, said the gold detailing running through both shirts is central to the narrative.

“At the heart of both jerseys sits two iconic Orlando Pirates crests, elevated with striking gold detailing. It is an unmistakable homage to Johannesburg,” she explained.

“Woven into the fabric, and into the DNA of the club itself, the golden accents honour the streets, people, culture and relentless hustle that have defined both the City of Gold and Orlando Pirates for generations.”

Bold new home shirt design

The home jersey represents a clear departure from the club’s traditional plain black look. It features a deep black base broken up by dark grey chevrons, a pattern inspired by granite to symbolise strength and resilience.

The skull and crossbones crest, adidas logo and main sponsor Vodacom are all rendered in metallic gold, while subtle red trim on the collar and sleeve cuffs completes the design.

The emphasis on gold is intended to link Orlando Pirates’ on-field ambitions with the city’s mining heritage, as the club moves towards its 90th year.

Retro touches on versatile away shirt

While the home kit leans heavily into the club’s familiar colour palette, the away jersey offers a markedly different feel.

An off-white base is overlaid with fine diagonal pinstripes and finished with a black polo-style collar. The classic adidas Trefoil logo makes a return on the chest in gold, giving the shirt a retro touch and a style that, according to the club and manufacturer, is designed to work both on and off the pitch.

Brown said the collection was crafted to respect tradition while signalling the direction of the club.

“We’ve created a jersey that honours the club’s rich history while looking ahead to an exciting future as we approach the 90th anniversary in 2027. The golden thread woven throughout this season’s design represents far more than an aesthetic element,” he said.

“It symbolises Johannesburg, the club’s enduring legacy and the generations of players and supporters forever connected through these colours. We’re proud to continue this journey alongside Orlando Pirates and celebrate one of football’s most iconic clubs.”

Strong reaction from supporters

Early reaction from fans on social media has been overwhelmingly positive, particularly towards the away jersey.

One supporter wrote, “We are not a European team but a proudly South African team with its heritage. #OnceAlways.”

Another fan commented, “The away jersey is something else,” while a third added, “Everything about this brand has a pure aura.”

Designed for the stands and the streets

Orlando Pirates and adidas have also emphasised that the shirts are intended as lifestyle pieces as much as match wear, highlighting how easily both jerseys can be incorporated into everyday outfits.

Suggestions shared with the launch include pairing the black home shirt with black cargo trousers or slim-fit jeans and adidas sneakers, adding a black cap, simple gold chain or bomber jacket for men. For women, the club has recommended styling the home jersey with a black denim mini skirt, cargo trousers or straight-leg jeans, complemented by white trainers or black boots, gold hoop earrings, a crossbody bag and an oversized denim jacket.

The off-white away jersey is presented as even more adaptable. Men are encouraged to wear it with beige chinos or light blue denim and white leather trainers, with a neutral overshirt for a smarter look. For women, cream linen trousers, wide-leg jeans or a satin midi skirt are suggested, along with gold jewellery to mirror the Trefoil logo, and loafers, trainers or low block heels. A tan handbag is promoted as a finishing touch.

Across both kits, accessories are advised to remain understated: a Pirates cap or bucket hat, comfortable sneakers, minimal gold jewellery, a black crossbody bag and a light jacket are positioned as all fans need on match day.

Orlando Pirates will debut the new range when they host Milford FC in their Betway Premiership curtain-raiser, beginning a season that the club hopes will marry on-pitch success with a celebration of its Johannesburg roots and approaching 90-year milestone.