VRYBURG/KLERKSDORP — The North West football community is mourning the death of former Orlando Pirates FC defender Lucas Tlhomelang, who has reportedly passed away at the age of 49.

Posts circulating on social media on Monday, 5 January 2026, claim Tlhomelang died in hospital in Klerksdorp following a long illness. Official details around the cause of death and funeral arrangements had not yet been publicly confirmed at the time of publishing.

Tlhomelang, remembered by many as a proud son of Huhudi near Vryburg, was celebrated not only for his football career but also for his work off the pitch. In 2023, the North West Department of Arts, Culture, Sport and Recreation announced that he had received a Lifetime Achievement Award at the North West Sports Awards, and noted his involvement in a foundation aimed at helping communities tackle substance abuse.

Residents have also shared photos of Tlhomelang at Huhudi Stadium, where murals and community tributes reflect the pride many locals held for his journey from the township to the national stage.

The Vryburg Independent Post extends condolences to Tlhomelang’s family, friends and the broader football fraternity during this difficult time.

-The VIP Team