Stellenbosch FC bring Ashley Du Preez back from Kaizer Chiefs

Stellenbosch FC have re-signed forward Ashley Du Preez on a permanent transfer from Kaizer Chiefs, bringing the 29-year-old back to the club where he began his senior career.

Du Preez, who was born in Idas Valley, has returned to Stellenbosch after four years with Kaizer Chiefs at Naturena. The move marks a second spell with Stellenbosch FC for a player who came through the club’s youth system and made his senior debut there in 2016.

He made 98 appearances for Stellenbosch FC before leaving for Kaizer Chiefs in 2022. During his time with Amakhosi, Du Preez helped the club win the Nedbank Cup, although he did not consistently meet the expectations placed on him during his spell in Johannesburg.

Stellenbosch FC confirmed the transfer on Tuesday and said Du Preez had been given the number 10 shirt for the 2026-27 season.

“Stellenbosch FC is delighted to announce the signing of Ashley Du Preez on a permanent transfer from Kaizer Chiefs in a deal that sees the Idas Valley-born star return for a second spell at the Club,” the club stated.

The forward could make his second Stellenbosch FC debut against Polokwane City in the Betway Premiership on 11 August.

His return has been welcomed by Stellenbosch FC chief executive Rob Benadie, who said the player’s connection with the club and the local community had played an important part in the decision to bring him back.

“Ashley has always held a special relationship with this Club and the Stellenbosch community, so we are incredibly excited to bring him home,” he said.

“He is also an exceptional footballer who has consistently proven his quality in the Betway Premiership over a number of years, and we believe he will add enormous value to our squad both on and off the field.”

The transfer sees Du Preez return to the Cape Winelands after his four-year stay at Kaizer Chiefs. He now has the opportunity to continue his career at the club where he first established himself at senior level.

Stellenbosch FC’s announcement also confirmed that his new number 10 shirt will be used for the 2026-27 campaign. His first opportunity to wear it competitively could come when Stellenbosch FC host or face Polokwane City in the Betway Premiership on 11 August, with the club indicating that he may be included in the team.

Du Preez’s previous spell at Stellenbosch FC produced 98 appearances after he progressed through the youth ranks. His return reunites him with the club and Stellenbosch community following his move to Kaizer Chiefs in 2022.

The Nedbank Cup remains the major honour he helped Kaizer Chiefs secure during his time at Naturena. Despite that success, his four-year spell did not fully match the expectations surrounding him, and he will now begin a second chapter with Stellenbosch FC.