Thousands of mourners gathered at the FNB Stadium in Soweto on Thursday to bid a somber farewell to Kaizer Chiefs footballer Luke Fleurs, as an emotional memorial service for the player, who was tragically killed in a carjacking last week.
The 24-year-old midfielder, who had represented South Africa’s Under-23 national team, was shot and killed by unknown gunmen while waiting at a petrol station in Johannesburg.
Fleurs’ former club Mamelodi Sundowns and the South African Football Association (SAFA) were among the organizations that provided support for the memorial service. Representatives from global bodies like FIFA and CAF, as well as Fleurs’ former club Township Rollers in Botswana, sent letters of condolence.
“Luke Fleurs’ Memorial Service at FNB Stadium. Special thanks to SAFA and Mamelodi Sundowns for their support,” Kaizer Chiefs posted on social media. “Thank you to FIFA, CAF, Saudi Arabian Football Federation and Township Rollers, for sending us condolence letters. Thank you to the PSL Teams for your messages.”
It was a poignant moment for all who knew and loved the young player who was yet to make an official appearance for Amakhosi, although he had sat on the bench for the team.
Police have since arrested six suspects believed to be part of a car hijacking syndicate operating in the Gauteng province. Authorities are continuing their investigations to apprehend any additional perpetrators.
Fleurs joined Kaizer Chiefs last year after previously playing for SuperSport United. He had represented South Africa at the 2021 Tokyo Olympics, showcasing his skills on the international stage.
The memorial service was a solemn occasion as Fleurs’ family, teammates, and fans came together to honor his memory and mourn the loss of a young life taken far too soon.
