Motsepe Foundation Championship club JDR Stars has exchanged hands after being sold.

African Times can confirm that current owner Nditsheni Nemasisi has thrown in the towel after another season without winning promotion to the elite league, the Betway Premiership.

In a communique sent to the club’s staff, including the players, Nemasisi was at pains to address the matter.

“Good evening. As promised that an official communication will be delivered today. It was my wish to do it in person. It is impossible to do so,” wrote Nemasisi, in the WhatsApp message seen by African Times.

“I therefore wish to confirm that I have decided to sell the NFD (National First Division) franchise of JDR Stars to the new owners, the agreement between myself and the new owners is subject to the approval of the executive committee of the PSL (Premier Soccer League).

“The franchise is sold as a going concern as required by the NSL handbook/compliance manual of (the) PSL.”

When sold as a “going concern”, the new owner inherits all the club’s assets and liabilities, including debts.

This publication can confirm that JDR Stars now belong to Limpopo businessman Lester Makatoane, who’s in the mining industry.

Makatoane is the founder and chief executive of Mahlopi Metals Group and on its website state; “Since 2019, Mahlopi Metals Group has been a leader in mining, committed to innovation, sustainability, and excellence. We aim to set industry standards through advanced technologies, environmental responsibility, and creating lasting value for communities and stakeholders.”

Nemasisi added: “In anticipation of the approval of the NSL executive committee, all contracted players will be introduced to the buyer with immediate effect to allow a smooth transition and all their proper planning towards the new season. All players that their contract[s] are expiring on the 30th of June 2025 will be issued with their clearances upon request to the club CEO.”

Nemasisi could not be reached for a comment.