John Comitis, owner of Cape Town City FC, is making waves in 2025 with a bold vision to elevate his club’s status, Cape {town} Etc reports.
After a rocky finish to 2024, Comitis wasted no time in shaking things up – parting ways with head coach Eric Tinkler and appointing Muhsin Ertugral as interim head coach and technical director.
The change brought instant results, with the Citizens securing impressive victories over Kaizer Chiefs and Orlando Pirates, reigniting their season.
But Comitis’s aspirations go far beyond just the field. The businessman, who founded City nearly a decade ago, is setting his sights on transforming the club into a major force in South African football.
At the heart of his strategy is the long-awaited creation of a dedicated home for the team -Hartleyvale Stadium.
The proposed 10 000-seater stadium, located at Cape Town’s historic Hartleyvale grounds, is no longer just a dream.
With the backing of Cape Town Mayor Geordin Hill-Lewis, Comitis hopes to break ground later this year after overcoming legal and bureaucratic hurdles.
For Comitis, the stadium represents more than just a new venue – it will be the cornerstone of a broader vision to enhance City’s identity and fan experience.
‘Having our own stadium would not only solidify our place in Cape Town, but it will also be a symbol of our long-term commitment to the game and our supporters,’ said Comitis.
The construction of Hartleyvale Stadium is poised to address long-standing challenges for the club.
Since 2019, Cape Town City has struggled with scheduling conflicts at Cape Town Stadium, often overshadowed by the dominance of rugby fixtures, particularly after the Stormers’ relocation.
If all goes to plan, the new stadium will provide City with a consistent home, free from the clash of other events.
The Hartleyvale development is part of a larger vision to create a vibrant sporting and commercial hub.
Comitis envisions a multi-functional ecosystem, with retail spaces, offices and accommodation surrounding the stadium.
‘I have investors lined up, and this will be a game-changer for the club and the city,’ he added.
Comitis’s determination is evident in every step of his journey, from overcoming challenges in securing sponsorships to fighting for the rights to Hartleyvale land.
His ambitious plans for City aren’t just about football – they’re about building a lasting legacy that will resonate across the city and beyond.
With a sharp focus on creating a fan-friendly environment and tapping into Cape Town’s allure, Comitis is positioning City FC for a future where the club is as much a cultural institution as a football powerhouse.
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Picture: Ziyaad Douglas / Gallo Images
