2010 World Cup heroes to rally behind Bafana Bafana at 2026 tournament, confirms Sports Minister Gayton McKenzie

South African Sports Minister Gayton McKenzie has confirmed that members of the country’s iconic 2010 FIFA World Cup squad will travel to North America to support the current national team, Bafana Bafana, at the 2026 World Cup.

The move is aimed at rekindling national pride and providing a morale boost as South Africa prepares for another appearance on football’s biggest stage.

The 2010 squad remains one of the most celebrated generations in South African football history, having helped the nation make its debut as World Cup hosts.

McKenzie’s announcement has been met with excitement among supporters, with the reunion expected to bring together some of the most recognisable names in South African football history.

2010 squad reunited for symbolic support mission

The travelling delegation is expected to include the full 2010 World Cup squad, featuring a blend of veteran leaders, creative midfielders, and experienced internationals who once carried the hopes of the nation.

In goal, the group includes Itumeleng Khune of Kaizer Chiefs, alongside Moeneeb Josephs of Orlando Pirates and Shuaib Walters of Maritzburg United.

The defensive unit features former stalwarts such as Aaron Mokoena of Blackburn Rovers, Matthew Booth of Mamelodi Sundowns, Bongani Khumalo of SuperSport United, and Anele Ngcongca, who played for KRC Genk in Belgium. Other defenders include Siboniso Gaxa, Siyabonga Sangweni, Tsepo Masilela, and Lucas Thwala.

Midfield creativity in the 2010 squad was driven by names such as Steven Pienaar of Everton, Siphiwe Tshabalala of Kaizer Chiefs, and Teko Modise of Orlando Pirates. They are joined by Reneilwe Letsholonyane, MacBeth Sibaya, Kagiso Dikgacoi, Lance Davids, and Thanduyise Khuboni.

Up front, the attacking options include Katlego Mphela of Sundowns, Bernard Parker of FC Twente, Siyabonga Nomvethe of Moroka Swallows, and Surprise Moriri, also of Sundowns.

Bafana Bafana’s 2026 challenge

The current national team, Bafana Bafana, has been drawn into a competitive Group A at the 2026 World Cup, where they will face Mexico, South Korea, and the Czech Republic.

The group presents a demanding path to the knockout stages, with South Africa looking to build on lessons from previous tournaments and finally progress beyond the group phase.

The presence of the 2010 squad is expected to serve as both inspiration and motivation, as the nation seeks to recapture the spirit and unity that defined its historic hosting of the tournament.

McKenzie believes the symbolic gesture will strengthen the bond between generations of players and remind the current team of what is possible on the global stage.