Yusuf Maart extends SV Ried contract until 2028

Yusuf Maart has signed a contract extension with Austrian Bundesliga side SV Ried that will keep the former Kaizer Chiefs midfielder at the club until 2028.

The 31-year-old joined Ried from Amakhosi in July 2025, shortly after scoring the decisive goal in the 2025 Nedbank Cup final. That victory ended Kaizer Chiefs’ 10-year wait for a trophy and made Maart a central figure in the club’s success.

Maart has since made a strong impression in Austria, adapting quickly to his new surroundings and establishing himself as an important part of Ried’s midfield. He has made 45 appearances for the club and attracted interest from several teams during the recent transfer window.

Despite those offers, Maart chose to remain with Ried, committing his future to the Austrian side for a further three years.

“In his first Bundesliga season, Yusuf was able to show that he is one of the best centre midfielders in Austria,” Ried Sporting Director Lukas Brandl said.

“In addition, a very close relationship has developed with our SV Oberbank Ried. Despite great international interest in the summer, it was clear to both sides that we wanted to extend this relationship.

“We are happy to be able to tie a constant that gives our team great stability in the upheaval.”

Maart said his decision was influenced by the faith shown in him by the club, as well as the support of his team-mates, the fans and his family.

“I am happy and satisfied here in Ried and have signed this new contract because of the entire team. The club invests a lot in me and has great confidence in me,” he added.

“I am very grateful that this contract gives me another chance to play here in Europe and in Austria. A big thank you also goes to the fans for their support as well as to my family, who strengthen my back and help me to stay mentally strong.

“My goal is to always give my best for the team and for me as a player – on the pitch, in training and in the game. Ultimately, it’s always about making the team better.”

The new agreement extends Maart’s stay in European football after his move away from South Africa’s Kaizer Chiefs. His first season with Ried has included a significant increase in his profile, with Brandl describing him as one of Austria’s leading central midfielders.

Maart’s contract decision comes after a summer in which he was the subject of international interest. However, the midfielder and SV Ried ultimately agreed that continuing their partnership was the best option.

The extension also gives Ried further certainty in its squad, with Brandl highlighting Maart as a dependable presence during a period of change at the club.

Maart’s move to Austria followed his influential contribution to Kaizer Chiefs’ Nedbank Cup triumph. His winning goal in the final brought an end to the Glamour Boys’ lengthy trophy drought before he began his career in Europe with Ried.

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