Adidas and Orlando Pirates FC have officially launched the club's new third jersey for the 2026/27 campaign. The limited-edition kit draws direct inspiration from the Soweto landscape and the community that has surrounded the club since its 1937 founding. The launch arrives with the team in formidable form, having won seven and drawn one of their eight league games this season to sit second.
The design features a dark base colourway accented with maroon, light purple, dusky orange and high-resolution red. An all-over graphic is inspired by the distinctive shapes of Soweto, with scattered rooftops symbolising the homes and families of generations of supporters. The club's iconic skull and crossbones crest is prominent, while Adidas branding and three stripes are integrated. It also includes an EQT-inspired collar and a custom back neck sign-off.
The jersey will make its first official appearance at South Africa Fashion Week on 24 October. Supporters can purchase it from the Orlando Pirates online store and physical outlets from 25 October. A wider launch through selected retail partners follows on 30 October.
Buccaneers in form
The launch comes as the team enjoys a strong start to the season. Orlando Pirates sit second in the Premier Soccer League with 22 points from eight matches, just one point behind leaders Mamelodi Sundowns. Their recent form shows four wins from the last five games, including a 4-0 victory over African Stars on 23 October. That emphatic win followed a 1-0 away victory over the same opponent on 17 October, with T. Moremi scoring the decisive goal. The team's only defeat in that five-game sequence was a 2-0 loss to Mamelodi Sundowns on 10 October, but they have since responded with three consecutive wins. Their impressive campaign has seen them score 19 goals while conceding just once, giving them a commanding goal difference of plus 18.
Their next test is a massive Soweto derby at home to Kaizer Chiefs on 31 October. Chiefs are currently fifth in the table, setting up a key clash. The team will look to top scorer T. Moremi, who has four goals in six appearances this season, to continue his form in the derby.
The jersey's narrative is one of belonging and resilience, visually bringing the heart of Orlando Pirates to life. It will be available for purchase from Saturday.
Further reading: Fullview
The club confirmed the jersey's first on-field debut is yet to be scheduled. Orlando Pirates stated, "Fans should keep their eyes open for the jersey’s first on-field debut, with further details to be revealed." The launch follows the team securing a CAF Champions League group stage place. The side, second in the league with 22 points, next face Kaizer Chiefs on 31 October.
Adidas detailed the performance technology in the new third jersey. The manufacturer stated the kit uses lightweight engineered fabric and CLIMACOOL+ technology to manage moisture. The jersey remains available for purchase. The team, second with 22 points, next faces Kaizer Chiefs.
