Zola Mahobe Biography: Age, Cause Of Death, Funeral, Wife, Children, Career, Embezzlement, Net Worth

Onyedika May 16, 2024

Zola Mahobe Biography

Zola Mahobe was a notable figure in South African football history. He is best known for his involvement with the Mamelodi Sundowns football club, which he transformed into a major brand in the 1980s.

Zola Mahobe’s legacy was also marred by controversy. He was involved in a significant fraud scheme, where he and his partner, Tebello “Snowy” Moshoeshoe, embezzled around R10 million from Standard Bank. This illicit money was used to fund his lavish lifestyle and his investments in the Sundowns and other businesses. His fraudulent activities eventually led to his arrest for fraud in 1989.

Despite the scandal, Mahobe’s impact on South African football, particularly on Mamelodi Sundowns, is still recognized. He passed away in 2013.

Zola Mahobe Age

Zola Mahobe was born in 1954. He passed away at the age of 59.

Zola Mahobe Hometown

Zola Mahobe hails from Sophiatown, Johannesburg.

Zola Mahobe Career

Zola Mahobe’s career was a remarkable journey marked by ambition, innovation, and ultimately, controversy. In the early 1980s, Mahobe emerged as a dynamic figure in South African football. He managed his businesses, including butcheries and a travel agency, from offices in Eloff Street, Johannesburg. His entrepreneurial spirit led him to the Mamelodi Sundowns, a football club that would become the centerpiece of his sporting legacy.

By 1983, Mahobe had taken a significant step in his career by founding Power Promotions, a business that would serve as a springboard for his involvement in football. His passion for the sport was evident, and it wasn’t long before he became a director of the Mamelodi Sundowns. Under his leadership, the club experienced a transformation, moving from the colored area of Marabastad in Pretoria to Mamelodi, and began to establish itself as a force in South African football.

Mahobe’s vision for the Sundowns was grandiose. He sought to create a superclub, and his approach was to invest heavily in talent. In a bold move, he purchased the club at the age of 31 and appointed the flamboyant Screamer Tshabalala as coach. His strategy included high-profile player acquisitions, such as striker Mike Mangena and Mike Ntombela, which sent ripples through the soccer community and set a new precedent for transfers in the country.

The mid-1980s saw Mahobe’s Sundowns rise to prominence, with the team colors changed to those of Brazil to reflect the attractive style of play he desired. He was not just building a team; he was crafting an identity. The Sundowns’ success on the field was mirrored by their growing brand, and Mahobe’s influence was undeniable. In 1986, he even took the entire team and their partners to London to watch the FA Cup final, a testament to his commitment to exposing his players to international football.

Zola Mahobe Controversy

Mahobe’s career was not without its challenges. His extravagant spending and high-profile lifestyle raised eyebrows, and it wasn’t long before the source of his wealth came into question. The revelation of his involvement in a significant fraud scheme with his partner, Tebello “Snowy” Moshoeshoe, shocked the football world. The duo embezzled around R10 million from Standard Bank, using the funds to support Mahobe’s lavish lifestyle and his investments in the Sundowns.

The fallout from the scandal was swift and severe. Mahobe’s arrest for fraud in 1989 resulted in a dramatic fall from grace. The scandal had far-reaching consequences, not only for Mahobe but also for the Mamelodi Sundowns and the broader South African football community. His conviction led to a prison sentence, and he faced the loss of his reputation and financial assets. The club, which had risen to prominence under his leadership, was left in a precarious position, and it took years for the Sundowns to recover from the impact of his actions.

Zola Mahobe’s Death

Zola Mahobe passed away in 2013 at the age of 59. His death was a significant event in the South African sports community, as he was credited with transforming the Sundowns into one of the country’s most prominent football clubs.

Reports indicate that Mahobe collapsed at his home on a Saturday in the presence of his children. The exact cause of his collapse was not publicly disclosed.

Zola Mahobe’s Funeral

Zola Mahobe’s funeral was marked by a traditional Islamic burial, which took place the day after his passing. As per Islamic customs, the burial is conducted promptly, usually within 24 hours of death.

Zola Mahobe Personal Life

Zola Mahobe was married and had children.

Zola Mahobe Net Worth

Zola Mahobe had an estimated net worth of R7 million before he passed away.