RB Leipzig managing director Johann Plenge has explained why the club’s post-season tour to South Africa, where they will face Mamelodi Sundowns, is “valuable” for the Bundesliga side.
The two clubs confirmed on Monday that they will meet on 29 May, marking Leipzig’s first trip to South Africa.
Leipzig’s previous post-season tours were held in the Americas — the United States in 2024 and Brazil in 2025 — but this time they will travel to the African continent.
According to Plenge, the tour is important because South Africa represents an “exciting football market” and offers the club an opportunity to expand its international identity.
“South Africa is a particularly exciting football market and a culturally impressive destination for RB Leipzig and the Bundesliga. The passion with which football is lived here fits perfectly with our goal of inspiring people around the world with our intensive and attacking style of play, as well as with our football as a whole,” Plenge said, as per the Leipzig’s website.
“After successful tours in the United States and Brazil, we are now very much looking forward to once again taking on responsibility for the league, travelling to South Africa for the first time, and meeting Mamelodi Sundowns – a club that has shaped African football for years and enjoys significant international recognition.
“We carry the colours of our club and our city out into the world and want to be the best possible ambassadors for Leipzig.
“At the same time, this tour is also a strong sign of our close partnerships: together with Red Bull, Puma, and Tudor as well as the Bundesliga, we aim to further strengthen our global footprint, gain deeper insights into a new football market, and strengthen our connection with people on the ground.
“For us, this trip is a valuable opportunity to engage with South African fans, gain insights into the local football culture, and continue to expand our international identity.”
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