The Life and Times of Zola Mahobe: Career, Football, Controversy, Family, Death and Legacy

Zola Mahobe was a famous person in South African football history. He is best known for his time with Mamelodi Sundowns in the 1980s.

Zola Mahobe was born in 1954 in Sophiatown, Johannesburg. He passed away in 2013 when he was 59 years old.

In his career, Mahobe did many things. He ran businesses like butcheries and a travel agency in Johannesburg. He loved football and wanted Mamelodi Sundowns to be the best team. He bought the club when he was 31 years old and hired Screamer Tshabalala as coach. Mahobe also signed famous players like Mike Mangena and Mike Ntombela. Under his leadership, the club moved to Mamelodi and became a strong team in South African football.

But Mahobe career had problems too. He spent a lot of money on his lifestyle, which made people wonder where he got the money from. It was revealed that he and his partner, Tebello “Snowy” Moshoeshoe, stole about R10 million from Standard Bank. They used this money for themselves and to invest in Mamelodi Sundowns.

In 1989, Mahobe was arrested for fraud and went to prison. This scandal hurt his reputation and the club he loved. It took a long time for Mamelodi Sundowns to recover.

Zola Mahobe was married and had children. When he died, he had a traditional Islamic burial. His net worth was estimated at R7 million at the time of his death.

FAQs about Zola Mahobe

1. Who was Zola Mahobe?

Zola Mahobe was a notable figure in South African football history, best known for his involvement with Mamelodi Sundowns in the 1980s.

2. When and where was Zola Mahobe born?

Zola Mahobe was born in 1954 in Sophiatown, Johannesburg, South Africa.

3. What did Zola Mahobe do for a living?

Zola Mahobe was involved in various businesses, including butcheries and a travel agency in Johannesburg. He was also heavily involved in football management.

4. What was Zola Mahobe known for?

Zola Mahobe is renowned for transforming Mamelodi Sundowns into a prominent football club in South Africa during the 1980s.

5. What controversy was Zola Mahobe involved in?

Zola Mahobe was involved in a significant fraud scheme with Tebello “Snowy” Moshoeshoe, where they embezzled approximately R10 million from Standard Bank. This scandal led to legal troubles for Mahobe in 1989.

6. When did Zola Mahobe die?

Zola Mahobe passed away in 2013 at the age of 59.

7. What was the cause of Zola Mahobe death?

The exact cause of Zola Mahobe death was not publicly disclosed.

8. How was Zola Mahobe funeral conducted?

Zola Mahobe had a traditional Islamic burial, which took place promptly after his death, following Islamic customs.

9. Did Zola Mahobe have a family?

Yes, Zola Mahobe was married and had children.

10. What was Zola Mahobe net worth?

Zola Mahobe's net worth was estimated to be R7 million before his passing.