For many Kaizer Chiefs fans, the unveiling of new attacker Luke Baartman was supposed to mark the beginning of an exciting new chapter.
But instead of stepping straight onto the pitch, Baartman now finds himself stuck in the middle of an ongoing football tug-of-war that’s delaying his official debut.
Why Baartman’s Debut Is on Hold
The 18-year-old forward was officially presented by Amakhosi on Tuesday night, shortly after the Premier Soccer League’s Dispute Resolution Chamber (PSL DRC) ruled in his favor.
According to the decision, Baartman was recognized as a free agent because his former club, Cape Town Spurs, had been relegated to the ABC Motsepe League, effectively classifying them as an amateur side.
That ruling seemed to clear the way for Baartman to put on the famous gold and black jersey. But Spurs aren’t ready to let things slide.
Cape Town Spurs Refuse to Back Down
Despite the PSL DRC decision, Spurs are adamant that Baartman is still their player.
The Urban Warriors insist that the young attacker had a valid contract with them even after relegation.
They’ve now lodged an appeal with the South African Football Association (SAFA), hoping for a different interpretation of the rules.
For Spurs, this is about principle—and perhaps pride.
They feel the decision undermines their standing, and they want SAFA to have the final say.
Déjà Vu for Kaizer Chiefs
This kind of legal wrangling isn’t new in South African football.
Just recently, Asanele Velebayi found himself in a similar situation before eventually being cleared by SAFA to join Chiefs as a free agent.
For many, Baartman’s case looks destined to end in the same way—but not before more delays and paperwork.
Until SAFA delivers its ruling, Kaizer Chiefs can’t field Baartman in any official matches.
For the teenager, that means more waiting before he can truly kick off his Amakhosi journey.
The No.11 Jersey Awaits
When Baartman does eventually get the green light, he’ll be wearing the No.11 jersey—an iconic number in Chiefs history.
Fans are eager to see what he can bring to the squad, but for now, his debut is on hold while the legal battle drags on in the background.
Is Spurs’ Fight Worth It?
Some critics are already asking whether Cape Town Spurs’ appeal is worth the time and resources.
With the odds seemingly stacked against them, many feel this is more of a delay tactic than a genuine attempt to keep Baartman.
But until the final whistle blows on this dispute, one thing is certain—Kaizer Chiefs fans will have to stay patient before watching their new signing in action.
