Leeds United’s first global ambassador, Lucas Radebe, has expressed his delight and says he’s looking forward to serving the Yorkshire club.

Leeds United will be a part of the English Premier League from the 2025/26 season after winning automatic promotion from the Championship.

Radebe comes a long way with Leeds United, having played and captained the team from 1994 to 2005. Since his retirement, he remains a recognized figure by the club, and his new role, confirmed by the club’s CEO Angus Kinnear, continues their love affair.

“I think it’s a great honour. Being appointed as the first global ambassador for such a great club goes beyond who I am and what I gave to the club and what the club stands for,” the former Bafana Bafana captain told the media.

“To be honest, this is an achievement where you get recognized for contributing towards the betterment of the community. It came as a surprise because there are greater players than me who were born in Leeds. To be able to be a part of the club is amazing.”

Radebe added, “At the moment, we have not met to map out my duties, but obviously it’s to represent the club globally, to bring more support to the club, and to tell the story of the club and players. It’s a club that deserves to be in the Premier League.”

Radebe is revered for his contribution to Leeds United and was nicknamed ‘The Chief’ by the club’s supporters, for his on-field leadership qualities.