Orlando Pirates have announced their participation in The Soccer Tournament (TST) 2026, a 7-a-side competition that will take place in Cary, North Carolina, from May 27 to June 1. The tournament features a winner-takes-all prize of $1 million, with 48 men’s teams competing for the top spot.
The Soccer Tournament: A Global Football Showcase
The TST has attracted a range of international teams, including Mexican giants Club América and Spanish LaLiga powerhouse Villarreal. For Orlando Pirates, competing in the tournament represents a significant opportunity to showcase their talents on a global stage and highlight the richness of African football history and culture.
According to the Orlando Pirates Marketing Manager, Sindi Sibisi, participation in the TST is a strategic move to expand the club’s global footprint. “For Orlando Pirates, participation in TST represents far more than just a football tournament,” stated Sibisi. “It provides the Club with an opportunity to showcase the Buccaneers brand on a global stage, engage with new audiences and supporters across the world, and further cement its ambition of expanding the reach of the Club beyond the African continent.”
Tournament Format and Competitors
The tournament will kick off with a group stage, followed by knockout rounds to crown the champion. Some of the notable teams competing in the TST include:
- Club América (Mexico)
- Villarreal (Spain)
- KRÜ FC
- Boca Juniors
In addition to the men’s competition, the 2026 edition of the TST will feature a 16-team women’s tournament and the inaugural Mixed Competition, promising a dynamic football experience for fans and participants alike.
Orlando Pirates will announce their squad of 16 players shortly after the conclusion of the Betway Premiership season on May 23. With the stakes high and the competition fierce, the Buccaneers will be looking to make a strong impression in their first appearance in the TST.
