The South African Premiership is the country’s top football division, known this season as the Betway Premiership. It has 16 clubs, and it is run by the Premier Soccer League (PSL). This guide explains the format, the clubs and where to follow the season on our site.
What is the South African Premiership?
The South African Premiership is the highest level of the domestic game. The league is officially called the Betway Premiership, after its title sponsor, as shown on the official PSL website. We use the name only to describe the league, and it is not an endorsement.
Many fans simply call it the PSL. Consequently, you will see both names across the site.
How does the South African Premiership season work?
Sixteen clubs play each other home and away, which makes 30 rounds. Our match data shows the 2026/27 season starting on 1 August 2026 and finishing on 22 May 2027. Points decide the order: three for a win, one for a draw.
However, fixtures can move because of national team windows and cup ties. For that reason, the PSL fixtures page is the place to confirm dates and SAST kick-off times.
Which clubs play in the 2026/27 South African Premiership?
The sixteen clubs are AmaZulu, Chippa United, Durban City, Golden Arrows, Kaizer Chiefs, Kruger United, Mamelodi Sundowns, Marumo Gallants, Milford, Orlando Pirates, Polokwane City, Richards Bay, Sekhukhune United, Siwelele, Stellenbosch and TS Galaxy.
Each club has its own profile in the Team Hub. For example, start with Mamelodi Sundowns or Kaizer Chiefs.
How does promotion and relegation work?
The Premiership is linked to the Motsepe Foundation Championship, the second tier, through promotion and relegation. The PSL runs promotion play-offs, and Milford booked their place in the 2026/27 Premiership through that route, according to the PSL website.
We do not list the exact number of relegation places here, because we have not confirmed it from the league handbook. Instead, check the PSL for the current rules.
Where does the league stand right now?
As at 22 September 2026, Mamelodi Sundowns led with 20 points after eight matches. Orlando Pirates were second on 19 points after seven, and AmaZulu third on 16. That picture will change every round, so open the live PSL table for the current order.
Where can you follow South African Premiership results and scorers?
First, our PSL results page lists the latest scores. Second, the Premiership top scorers page tracks the goals race. Finally, live scores covers match days as they happen.
Does the Premiership feed into continental football?
South African clubs do play in African competitions organised by CAF. However, we have not confirmed the exact number of places or the qualification rules from an official source, so we do not state them here. Check CAF for the current details.
Which fixtures matter most in the South African Premiership?
The Soweto Derby between Kaizer Chiefs and Orlando Pirates is the biggest date on the calendar. According to our match data, the first meeting of 2026/27 is on 31 October 2026 at Orlando Stadium, and the return is on 13 March 2027 at FNB Stadium. Dates can change, so confirm them on the fixtures page. For history and context, read our Soweto Derby guide.
How should new fans read the league table?
Start with points, then look at games played. A club with fewer matches can sit lower simply because it has yet to play. Next, check goal difference, which separates clubs level on points. Also, remember that early-season tables are volatile, since one result can change the picture. Because sixteen clubs play 30 rounds, patience pays off when you read the standings.
Meanwhile, the results page helps you see why a club sits where it does.
Why does the league name include a sponsor?
Leagues often carry a title sponsor, and this one is named Betway Premiership. The sponsor can change from one season to the next. For that reason, we also use the plain names South African Premiership and PSL, which stay the same.
How do you follow the Premiership on match days?
Open the live scores page for goals as they happen, and use the fixtures page to plan your weekend. All kick-off times on our site are in SAST, so you never need to convert them. Because match days can change at short notice, check again on the morning of the game.
Frequently asked questions about the South African Premiership
How many teams are in the South African Premiership?
There are 16 clubs in the 2026/27 Betway Premiership, and each plays 30 league matches.
Is the South African Premiership the same as the PSL?
In everyday use, yes. The PSL is the body that runs the league, and the top division is called the Betway Premiership this season.
When does the Premiership season end?
Our match data lists 22 May 2027 as the last date, although the league can change the calendar.
Where can I see the table?
The live PSL table is on our PSL table page and updates through the season.
