Mamelodi Sundowns owner Patrice Motsepe earned R28.5 million for his final months as executive chairman of African Rainbow Minerals. The billionaire stepped down from the executive role at ARM in February this year, transitioning to a non-executive position after more than two decades leading the company he founded.
His total remuneration for the 2026 financial year included a basic salary of R6.7 million, cash bonuses and sign-on awards of R9 million, and long-term incentives worth R12.8 million. After his move to non-executive chairman, he earned a further R381,000 in fees. The figures were disclosed in ARM's annual report, which also showed the company generated revenue of R16.3 billion and profits of approximately R5.2 billion.
The club is owned by Motsepe's family, whose wealth originates from the mining empire he built. He formed ARMgold in 1997 before merging it with Harmony Gold and Anglovaal Mining in 2003 to create African Rainbow Minerals. Motsepe, who became the first Black African dollar billionaire in 2008, owns about 43% of ARM through a family investment vehicle. That stake, valued at around $781 million, also stands to benefit from a substantial dividend payout announced by the company.
His business success provides a stable financial foundation for Mamelodi Sundowns, who are currently first in the Premier Soccer League with 23 points from nine games. They hold a one-point lead over Orlando Pirates and remain unbeaten this season with seven wins and two draws. Their recent form reads WDDWW, with the latest victory a 1-0 win over Marumo Gallants last Tuesday thanks to a goal from S. Ndlovu.
Under Motsepe's ownership, Sundowns have built a squad that has scored 23 goals while conceding only eight. Top scorer T. Matthews has three goals this campaign. The team's strong start is detailed on the club's standings page. They face Durban City at home this Sunday, looking to extend their lead at the summit.
Beyond club football, Motsepe has served as president of the Confederation of African Football since his election in March 2021. He has consistently deflected speculation about a move into national politics. "I have never been interested in being president of South Africa," Motsepe said, repeating the statement for emphasis. "I have never been interested in being president of South Africa."
The 64-year-old, a trained lawyer before entering mining in the 1990s, now focuses on his non-executive roles at ARM and Harmony Gold, where ARM holds a 12% stake. His reduced day-to-day involvement at the mining firm coincides with Sundowns' sustained push for another league title. The team's next challenge is the home fixture against 10th-placed Durban City on 1 November.
The report in full is at Briefly News
