Stellenbosch FC confirm new chapter with Steve Barker exit for Simba

Barker departs as the longest-serving coach in the club’s history, having overseen its rise from the National First Division to becoming one of South African football’s most stable Premiership outfits.

Confirming his decision to leave, Barker described the move as a “bittersweet” moment, insisting the timing was right for both himself and the club.

“It is a bittersweet decision, but I feel the time is right for Stellenbosch to enter a new era with someone else at the helm,” Barker said.

“I believe that taking up a new and exciting challenge at one of the biggest clubs on the continent is something I need to pursue to further my own personal growth and ambitions as a coach, and I’m grateful that my time with Stellenbosch has helped open that door.

“I would like to thank each and every person at the Club for playing such an important and influential role in my time at Stellenbosch. I will forever cherish the memories we made together.”

His exit marks the end of a defining era for the Western Cape club as they prepare for a new chapter, having initially joined Stellies as an assistant coach to Sammy Troughton during the club’s inaugural season before being appointed head coach in July 2017.

Across 309 matches in all competitions, he guided the side to the 2018–19 National First Division title, securing promotion to the Premiership and laying the foundations for sustained top-flight football.

The 56-year-old further cemented his legacy by leading Stellenbosch to their first-ever major trophy, winning the revamped Carling Knockout in 2023, before back-to-back MTN8 finals and reaching the CAF Confederation Cup semifinals in the 2024/25 season.

Stellenbosch CEO Rob Benadie paid tribute to Barker’s impact, highlighting his influence beyond results on the pitch and credited the coach with helping shape the club’s culture, identity and professional standards.

“Steve’s achievements on the field speak for themselves, but his influence has been just as important in helping shape the culture and identity that have become synonymous with Stellenbosch FC in recent years,” Benadie said.

“To serve a single Club for nearly nine years in the modern game reflects not only remarkable loyalty, but also a deep commitment to our long-term vision, which remains firmly on track thanks in no small part to his contributions.

“While Steve’s departure marks the end of an important and fruitful chapter in our history, the Club is well positioned for the future with the belief that our structures and philosophy will ensure continuity and stability as we move into the next phase of our journey.

“Finally, I would like to express my sincere gratitude, both personally and on behalf of Stellenbosch FC, to Steve and his family for their commitment and support throughout his time at the Club. We wish them nothing but success in Tanzania.”