Ramantsha Blackpool are set to acquire the ABC Motsepe League status of Tshakhuma Tsha Madzivhandila (TTM), in what would represent a major step up for the Vhembe-based club.
Although neither Ramantsha Blackpool nor TTM have officially confirmed the reported transaction, sources within the Blackpool camp have confirmed that the club has acquired TTM’s ABC Motsepe League status.
The development comes just days after TTM secured their place in the Limpopo ABC Motsepe League by defeating Gosebo United 3–2 in a dramatic relegation playoff at Oscar Mpetha Stadium.
TTM had been forced into the playoff after the SAFA Limpopo Provincial Executive Committee (PEC) resolved to halt Black Leopards’ participation in the provincial league pending the finalisation of the club’s ongoing matter before the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS).
The playoff between TTM and Gosebo was subsequently arranged to determine the final composition of the ABC Motsepe League, with both clubs having finished second from bottom in their respective streams during the previous season.
TTM ultimately came from behind to beat Gosebo 3–2 and secure their ABC Motsepe League status.
However, despite earning their place on the field, TTM are now reportedly set to relinquish that status to Ramantsha Blackpool.
Blackpool finished second in last season’s Hollywoodbets SAFA Vhembe Men’s Regional League, missing out on the championship after losing to eventual champions ABC FC in the regional final.
ABC FC went on to secure promotion to the Limpopo ABC Motsepe League, leaving Blackpool just one step away from the provincial competition.
The reported acquisition of TTM’s status would therefore see Blackpool make the jump into the ABC Motsepe League without having secured promotion through the traditional sporting route.
The transaction would still be subject to the relevant football authorities’ approval and completion of the necessary administrative processes.
Meanwhile, TTM are themselves reportedly exploring an even bigger move.
The club is rumoured to be close to acquiring the Betway Premiership status of Marumo Gallants, potentially paving the way for TTM to return to South Africa’s top-flight football.
Neither TTM nor Marumo Gallants have officially confirmed the reported transaction, and the exact details of the proposed deal remain unclear.
If both reported developments materialise, it would result in a remarkable reshuffling of statuses, with Ramantsha Blackpool moving into the ABC Motsepe League while TTM potentially move in the opposite direction by taking over a Betway Premiership position.
For now, the reported transactions remain subject to official confirmation and the necessary approvals from the relevant football authorities.
SAFA Limpopo is expected to finalise the composition and streaming of the 24-team ABC Motsepe League as preparations for the new season continue.
