RB Leipzig excited to expand African footprint ahead of South Africa tour

The Bundesliga outfit is set to face the Premier Soccer League giants Mamelodi Sundowns in a friendly match on 29 May at Lucas Moripe Stadium - as part of their “Re Kaofela” tour.

Speaking during a virtual media press conference on Wednesday afternoon, Plenge said the tour presents another opportunity for the club to strengthen its presence on the African continent.

"This is the first time we have the pleasure to go to South Africa and that's a market that is known here in Germany for it's warm atmosphere, it's joyful football and all the amazing fans. 

"There are always several reasons to go on tour. First and primarily, it's about football and leaving our footprint in a new market and still part of the world of Red Bull."

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Plenge added that while the team may not travel with all of their top players due to preparations for the upcoming FIFA World Cup, they are still aiming to bring an exciting squad to South Africa.

This will be Leipzig’s third major international tour following visits to the United States in 2024 and Brazil in 2025. 

Plenge explained that the club is not only looking to explore global football markets but also to invest meaningfully in the countries they visit.

"This shall not be a one-off and a simple tour we're doing because we want to leave a footprint, and that includes infrastructure wise but also touching the hearts of the community, and this is what we did in São Paulo last year."

Plenge also highlighted the significance of hosting the match at Lucas Moripe Stadium, noting that the club wants to honour the legacy of late South African football legend Lucas Moripe.

"For us, it's important not just to have a marketing tool, but really to have credible and trustworthy touchpoints and to appreciate one of the football legends is an important signal for us to send to the football community."