Kaizer Chiefs chairman Kaizer Motaung has expressed his heartfelt condolences to the friends and family of Bloemfontein Celtic president Dr Rantlai Petrus Molemela.

The 84-year-old passed away on Sunday morning after a long debilitating illness, and the Molemela family and the football fraternity have now lost an icon.

The Amakhosi chairman says he was shocked and saddened by the loss of Molemela, and wishes the Molemela family and the Bloemfontein Celtic community the best during their mourning period.

‘Molemela has played a huge role in football,’ Motaung told the Kaizer Chiefs website.

‘I will remember him for his humour and energetic spirit, which he infused through his commentary and passion for Siwelele sa Masele. We have lost a great man indeed.

‘On behalf of Kaizer Chiefs, I wish to express my heartfelt condolences to the Molemela family and their friends. I trust that the bereaved will be consoled by remembering the moments of love and laughter they shared with “Whitehead”. May the soul of Molemela rest in peace.’

Details of the funeral of Dr Rantlai Petrus Molemela and other logistics will follow soon.

Photo: Bloemfontein Celtic website