Lucas Radebe appointed as Leeds United’s global ambassador

by Nomonde Simelane

Despite officially retiring from football and the club itself 20 full years ago, Lucas Radebe remains one of Leeds United’s most cherished alumni. The club’s CEO, Angus Kinnear, has announced the former captain and football legend as their Global Ambassador.

The relationship between the English football club Leeds United and Bafana Bafana legend Lucas Radebe dates back to 1994, when he made the move from Kaizer Chiefs. Although he had a tumultuous start, which included injuries and some disagreements, Lucas, who was also popularly known as ‘The Chief’, enjoyed a legendary 11-year career and has become one of the club’s most iconic players.

The Chief became an instrumental piece in Leeds’ success in the late 1900s and early 2000s, as his commanding presence as centre back came second to none, while his leadership and his ability to play the ball earned him cult-hero status in the club. In 1998, George Graham named the Mzansi legend as captain, which did not come as a surprise, as many believed he had earned the title. His reign was a successful one, as he became an instrumental part of the club’s success in the late 1900s and early 2000s, which led Leeds to a Champions League spot, among other accomplishments.

Recently, Angus Kinnear took to Robert Marawa’s Marawa Sports Worldwide podcast to announce Lucas as Leeds United’s first-ever global ambassador. The news comes conveniently as the club has clawed its way into a Premier League spot after being relegated in 2023.

His appointment in this role is a testament to the lasting impact he left on the club, as it is still appreciated two decades after his retirement. He has become a major part of the social culture in Leeds, as bands and streets have been named after him, some die-hard fans have named their children after him, while others displayed their love for him with tattoos in his honour. The legend even has a beer called the ‘Radebeer’ named after him. As a global ambassador, Lucas Radebe’s role includes responsibilities such as promoting the club’s brand values on an international stage, engaging with fans, particularly in the African region, supporting commercial and community efforts and sponsorship activations, and many more.

Also see: Scorpion Kings shut break up rumours up with project announcement