Carling Knockout Ready for Take-Off as Premiership Clubs Await Draw
The countdown to the Carling Knockout is almost over, with the official launch and round-of-16 draw scheduled to take place on Wednesday, 14 October 2026. The event will determine the opening fixtures and tournament pathway for all sixteen clubs competing in the competition this season.
Supporters across the country are eagerly awaiting the draw, which will officially unveil the tournament bracket and reveal the first knockout matchups. The competition remains one of the most anticipated cup tournaments on the South African football calendar.
Defending champions Orlando Pirates will headline this year’s field after lifting the trophy in the previous edition. The Buccaneers secured the title by defeating Marumo Gallants in the final and will be aiming to begin a successful defence of their crown.
The competition will feature every club currently participating in the Betway Premiership. Mamelodi Sundowns, Orlando Pirates, AmaZulu FC, Kaizer Chiefs, Milford FC, Sekhukhune United, Stellenbosch FC and Golden Arrows have all secured places in the tournament.
They will be joined by Chippa United, Durban City FC, Polokwane City, TS Galaxy, Kruger United, Richards Bay FC, Siwelele FC and Marumo Gallants, completing a sixteen-team lineup that promises plenty of excitement and drama.
This season’s tournament will also introduce fresh faces to the Carling Knockout. Newly promoted Milford FC and Kruger United are set to participate in the competition for the first time following their promotion to the top flight ahead of the current campaign.
Meanwhile, Magesi FC and Orbit College FC will not feature in this year’s edition after being relegated from the Betway Premiership at the conclusion of last season. Their departures have paved the way for the league’s newest clubs to test themselves against some of the country’s biggest teams.
With the draw set to reveal the road to cup glory, anticipation continues to build among players, coaches and supporters alike. From established giants to ambitious newcomers, all sixteen clubs will soon discover the opponents standing between them and Carling Knockout success.
