Chippa United have officially confirmed plans to relocate their base of operations from Gqeberha to East London, a strategic move aimed at enhancing player concentration and performance levels, according to head coach Thabo September.
The decision follows a season of mixed results and fluctuating form, with the club seeking to establish a more focused and comfortable environment for its players.
Chippa has already played several successful home fixtures at Buffalo City Stadium in East London, which has delivered the bulk of their home victories this season.
The remainder have come at Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium, the club’s traditional venue in Gqeberha, where they are scheduled to host Kaizer Chiefs on 19 April.
Due to Kaizer Chiefs’ large travelling fan base, that highly anticipated fixture will remain at the larger Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium to accommodate the expected turnout.
Coach September believes the move to East London could serve as a turning point for the team’s mentality and individual player development.
Speaking after a 1–1 draw with Golden Arrows, he highlighted the importance of creating the right atmosphere for players to thrive.
“There is a possibility the club could move to East London to provide a more focused and welcoming environment,” said September.
“This will help players like Azola Metrose find form again, and hopefully inspire the next generation of footballers from Port Elizabeth.”
Chippa United are currently ninth in the Betway Premiership standings with 29 points from 22 games, just one place outside the top eight.
They are pushing for a spot in the prestigious MTN8 competition, a feat they haven’t achieved since the 2015/16 season.
However, with just a few points separating the teams between fourth and eleventh place, the race for qualification is intensifying.
Their remaining schedule is among the most challenging in the league.
Fixtures include encounters with perennial title challengers Mamelodi Sundowns and Kaizer Chiefs, as well as tough away trips to SuperSport United and Marumo Gallants.
Despite the difficult road ahead, September remains optimistic about his side’s prospects.
The coach views the recent draw with Golden Arrows not as a setback, but as a critical point gained in the tight mid-table battle.
As Chippa United prepare for the final stretch of the season, the relocation to East London represents more than just a change of scenery—it marks a shift in mindset as the club aims to build momentum and secure a historic top-eight finish.
