'It's a major boost as we build pathways from grassroots talent to global excellence' - King Ryan joins Phantane AC

In what is the first big transfer ahead of the 2026 season, Paris 2024 Olympian Ryan Mphahlele has joined the Phantane Athletic Club. The Totalsports backed KZN-based club are known for signing some of South Africa’s biggest track and road running stars with the likes of Gerda Steyn, Prudence Sekgodišo and Tshepo Tshite all having called the club home.

"Phantane Athletics Club is proud to officially welcome South African middle-distance sensation Ryan Mphahlele to the Green and Gold family," says club founder Mdu Khumalo.

Mphahlele showing off his new kit. Photo Credit: Supplied.

"A true champion of the road and track, Mphahlele has represented South Africa on the world's biggest stages including the Olympic Games, World Athletics Championships, and World Cross-Country Championships, his arrival marks a major boost for our club as we continue to build a powerful pathway from grassroots talent to global excellence."

Born and bred in Gauteng’s second largest township of Thembisa, Mphahlele won the 1500m SA title in 2019, silver medal at the 2022 African Championships and is the owner of a 3:32.27 lifetime best which makes him the third fastest SA 1500m athlete of all time. Khumalo says bringing Mphahlele to the club is in line with their developmental focus to inspire the next generation of top runners.

Mphahele's agent Marcel Viljoen, Phantane AC Founder Mdu Khumalo, Mphahlele's coach Elvis Khoza and the man himself share a laugh at his official unveiling. Photo Credit: Supplied.

"At Phantane, we are committed to developing future stars, and having a world-class athlete like Mphahlele join our home will inspire the next generation to dream bigger, run faster, and chase greatness."

“One thing I like about coach Mdu is that he focuses on development. We want to encourage these youngsters to be the best in the country if not in the world. With athletes like Prudence and Tshepo also in the club, I'm hoping that we can build a formidable team. My aim is to progress and improve on every one of my events from 1500m to 10km. That is my goal for next year," said the man affectionately known as King Ryan.