2026 World Cup star Jayden Adams dies in South Africa, sports minister confirms and pays tribute

South African football has been plunged into mourning following the death of Bafana Bafana and Mamelodi Sundowns midfielder Jayden Adams at the age of 25, just days after his country’s 2026 FIFA World Cup campaign.

South Africa’s Minister of Sport, Arts and Culture, Gayton McKenzie, confirmed Adams’ passing in an official statement on Saturday, July 11, describing the midfielder as one of the country’s brightest young talents. The cause of his death has not yet been confirmed, with the minister calling for restraint and an end to speculation while his family and club are given privacy.

“It is with profound shock and a heavy heart that I have learnt of the passing of Jayden Adams, midfielder for Mamelodi Sundowns and Bafana Bafana, at the age of 25,” McKenzie stated.

“South African football has lost one of its brightest young talents, and our nation mourns alongside his family, his teammates and the millions of supporters who watched him grow from a promising academy prospect into a full Bafana Bafana international.”

Adams had only recently returned from representing South Africa at the 2026 World Cup. He featured in all three of Bafana Bafana’s group matches as Hugo Broos’ team made history by reaching the Round of 32 for the first time before their campaign ended against co-hosts Canada.

McKenzie also recalled Adams’ remarkable courage during South Africa’s match against Czechia in Atlanta. The midfielder played despite learning only hours before kick-off that his grandmother, Marianna, had died.

“I recall noting how unusually quiet Jayden seemed on the bench in the second half, after he had been substituted – it was only afterwards that we learnt he had taken to the field that day carrying the fresh grief of losing his grandmother, Marianna, who had passed away only hours before kick-off,” the minister said.

“When I reached out to Jayden to offer my condolences and encouragement, I shall carry forever the humble, appreciative response he gave me. That he chose to wear the national jersey and give his all for his country in that moment speaks to a depth of character and professionalism well beyond his years.”

Adams came through the Stellenbosch FC academy and became the club’s first academy graduate to sign a professional contract in August 2020. He made 139 appearances for the Cape Winelands club and helped them win the 2023 Carling Knockout before joining Mamelodi Sundowns in January 2025. He later added the Betway Premiership and CAF Champions League titles to his honours.

He was also part of the Bafana Bafana squad that claimed bronze at the 2024 Africa Cup of Nations in Côte d’Ivoire.

McKenzie extended condolences to Adams’ family, his young daughter, teammates, the South African Football Association and the country’s football community.

“May his soul rest in peace,” the minister concluded.