YesPlay welcomes Football Icon Sibusiso Vilakazi as official Brand Ambassador

YesPlay is delighted to welcome Sibusiso Vilakazi as an Official Brand Ambassador, because when football intelligence meets a brand that loves the game, good things happen.

One of South Africa’s most respected football minds, Vilakazi is known for his vision, creativity and calm-under-pressure brilliance. Born in Soweto in 1989, he made his professional debut with Bidvest Wits in 2009 and didn’t waste any time announcing himself as one of the Premier Soccer League’s most influential attacking midfielders.

Fearless on the ball and never short on impact, Vilakazi stood out early. That influence earned him Bidvest Wits Players’ Player of the Year for the 2011–12 season. At just 22 years old, he was handed the captain’s armband, and wore it like it was made for him until 2015.

He later went on to enjoy a trophy-laden spell with Mamelodi Sundowns, collecting multiple league titles and domestic cups across six successful seasons. During the 2013–14 campaign, Vilakazi picked up both the PSL Footballer of the Season and Players’ Player of the Season awards. In short, he didn’t just play the game, he ran it.

On the international stage, Vilakazi earned over 30 caps for Bafana Bafana, proudly representing South Africa. His top-flight journey continued with TS Galaxy and Sekhukhune United, while his football brain stayed firmly switched on through media analysis and commentary duties.

Vilakazi brings leadership, insight and football IQ in abundance. He joins the YesPlay family as a natural fit for a brand that debates line-ups, celebrates moments and lives for matchday drama. His presence adds authenticity, credibility and just the right amount of star power.

Football sits at the heart of the YesPlay experience, making this partnership instinctively right. Aligning with Vilakazi strengthens YesPlay’s connection with supporters who follow every match, every moment and every decision with passion.

“We’re absolutely thrilled to welcome Sibusiso to the YesPlay family,” said Katya Green, COO at YesPlay. “He represents everything we value about the game: passion, intelligence and a deep connection with the fans. This partnership adds depth to the experience and gives our audiences access to insight from someone who truly understands the game.”

Vilakazi shared his excitement, saying: “Football belongs to the fans, and that’s exactly what YesPlay understands. This partnership is about bringing supporters closer to the game, sharing real insight, real passion and enjoying a few great football moments along the way.”

“I’ve had the privilege of watching Sibusiso grow from a talented young prospect into the professional he is today,” said Mike Makaab, CEO of Prosport International. “He earned the nickname ‘The General’ for a reason. He leads with intelligence and composure on and off the pitch. Pairing him with the energetic YesPlay team is a winning combination.”

The partnership reflects a shared ambition to elevate the fan experience, celebrate local football talent and keep South African football culture front and centre.

Keep an eye out for Sibusiso Vilakazi across upcoming YesPlay campaigns.

Game on!