After months of anticipation and speculation, the Premier Soccer League (PSL) finally unveiled its newly designed Betway Premiership trophy — but its debut has sparked a wave of mixed reactions among South African football fans.
Crafted by internationally acclaimed visual artist Nelson Makamo, the new trophy was revealed over the weekend following Mamelodi Sundowns’ 2-0 triumph over Magesi FC. The victory came just a week after Sundowns were officially crowned league champions, securing yet another dominant campaign in South African top-flight football.
However, what should have been a moment of celebration has instead ignited widespread debate, particularly on social media. While many Sundowns fans have welcomed the trophy with pride, others across the footballing community were quick to mock its unusual appearance — some even comparing it to a hookah pipe due to its tall, cylindrical shape and intricate design.
When approached for comment, Betway, the league’s title sponsor, deferred all queries to the PSL, which has yet to respond publicly.
A Trophy With Meaning
In an interview posted on Betway’s YouTube channel in April, Makamo opened up about his vision for the trophy. Sitting down with former professional players Oupa Manyisa, Mpho Makola, Lucky Lekgwathi, and Lehlohonolo Majoro, the Limpopo-born artist explained his creative process and inspiration.
“One thing I noticed with many trophies is that they rarely highlight two of the most crucial elements of the game — the player and the supporter,” said Makamo. “To me, those are the people who truly define the league.”
Makamo emphasized that he wanted to create something symbolic, reflecting South Africa’s cultural identity and the significant role soccer has played in uniting the country through difficult times.
In another promotional video released late last year, Makamo spoke about the lack of attention typically given to trophies once they’re awarded. “People only focus on being number one. But number one should be complemented — that’s what this trophy is about.”
The artist also noted that unlike traditional trophies made solely from silver or bronze, his design incorporates a hint of gold — a nod to South Africa’s heritage and richness. “It’s rare to see gold on a trophy, and in South Africa, we have gold. So it made sense to include that.”
Emotional Connection
Former Mamelodi Sundowns captain Hlompho Kekana weighed in on the new design, expressing admiration for the trophy’s symbolic value. “A trophy should resonate with us — the players, the nation, and the history of football in this country. That way, it will leave a lasting legacy.”
Makamo acknowledged the intense public interest leading up to the reveal. “People couldn’t wait. Some even messaged me directly on social media, demanding to see the trophy,” he said. “They weren’t even asking nicely!”
He stressed the importance of creating a trophy that genuinely reflects South African identity. “South Africa is one of the most cultured places in the world. If I was going to do this, I needed it to represent who we are.”
Divided Opinion
Despite the thoughtful symbolism and emotional effort behind the design, the response remains polarized. While some appreciate the deeper meaning, others have not held back their criticism, citing the unconventional look as a departure from traditional trophy aesthetics.
As the PSL continues to remain silent on the backlash, the conversation around the trophy shows no signs of slowing down. One thing is certain — the league’s new silverware has made an impression, for better or worse.
Related article: Has the PSL Become Too Predictable Under Mamelodi Sundowns’ Rule?
