Bad Apes won the Red Bull 1Pal at Jabulani Mall in Johannesburg, South Africa.
Image: Supplied
Jabulani Mall came alive as the Red Bull 1 Pal tournament took centre stage, bringing football to the heart of the fans and igniting the streets with flair, rhythm, and skill, as the finest 3v3 teams battled for a R20 000 grand prize.
The event celebrated the grit, creativity, and unmistakable spirit of Mzansi football culture, drawing crowds eager to witness high-intensity matches and fearless footwork. After a day packed with energy and spectacle, Bad Apes emerged as champions, defeating Orlando Pirates 5s in a thrilling final to lift the 2026 Red Bull 1 Pal trophy.
Led by chairman Sibusiso Radebe and coached by Smangaliso Maseko, Bad Apes combined composure, street smarts, and relentless hustle, perfectly embodying the 3v3 format where speed, creativity, and flair rule the game.
Red Bull 1 Pal adds a unique twist to street football, challenging teams to stack four bricks — a nod to the iconic makeshift goalposts that have long defined township football.
Reflecting on the triumph, Bad Apes player Wandile “Dube” Nhlapo said:
“The plan was to win the game and do our best. The entertainment and the fans were a nice touch. Winning the R20 000 cash prize will help elevate the players and the club and allow us to continue playing soccer for the love of the game.”
A highlight of the day was the presence of Mamelodi Sundowns’ Teboho Mokoena, who spoke to the Independent Newspapers on the importance of initiatives like Red Bull 1 Pal.
The stage was set at the Red Bull 1 Pal even as the best in 3v3 football took centre stage
Image: Supplied
“My experience with Red Bull 1 Pal was enjoyable; it took me back to my younger days when we used to play with only bricks as goalposts,” he said.
“I hope to see it reach more communities, like my neighborhood of Bethlehem. Football keeps people off the streets and away from bad habits. It brings communities together, and you could see how happy everyone was — it was a beautiful experience.”
Also joining in the festivities were Kaizer Chiefs midfielder Mfundo Vilakazi, along with Siwelele FC duo Samukelo Xulu and Happy Mashiane, and former Chiefs defender Ramahlwe Mphahlele.
*Obakeng Meletse is Independent Media’s multi-sport writer. For fresh video content, follow our YouTube channel The Clutch