Johannesburg – Minister of Sport, Arts & Culture Goodenough Zizi Kodwa on Sunday joined family, friends, Orlando Pirates, and football fans in mourning the passing of Papi Khomane.
The former Orlando Pirates captain Papi and his mother died in a car accident on Saturday.
The City Press quoted the yesteryear star’s father, Johannes “Yster” Khomane – himself a football legend – as saying that Papi and his mother, Rita Khomane, lost their lives in the car crash. A third person also died in the crash.
They were on their way to a funeral in Newcastle, KwaZulu-Natal, when the accident happened.
Commenting on the tragedy on Sunday, Minister Kodwa said in a message posted on X: “I am saddened by the passing of former Orlando Pirates captain Papi Khomane and his mother Mme Rita.
“My thoughts and prayers are with Mr. Yster Khomane, the Khomane family, and the entire South African football fraternity.”
Papi began his professional football journey with Jomo Cosmos in 1994.
He later joined Orlando Pirates in 1998, leaving an unerasable mark on the field of play.
Papi retired from football in 2007 after a distinguished career that saw him play over 150 games for the Soweto giants Orlando Pirates.
A distinguished sportsman and patriot, Papi popularly known by football fans as “Ntsimbi” proudly represented Bafana Bafana, earning nine caps between 1998 and 2000.
Papi’s contributions to South African football will be greatly remembered.
Meanwhile, the African National Congress (ANC) said it was “saddened by the tragic loss” of Papi and his mother in a car crash en route to a funeral in Newcastle.
“Our deepest sympathies go out to his family and loved ones,” the ANC said.
“The untimely passing of Papi at the young age of 48 is an incomprehensible loss to both the world of football and his family.
“Papi had much wisdom and experience yet to share, not only on the football field but also within the embrace of his family.
“His premature departure leaves a void in the collective knowledge and spirit of the game, as well as in the hearts of those who cherished him.
“Our condolences extend to his family, friends and fans.”
