Le Coq Sportif and SAFA part ways after five-year partnership that redefined South African football

The South African Football Association (SAFA) and French sportswear manufacturer Le Coq Sportif have confirmed the end of their five-year partnership, which will officially conclude in December 2025.

The collaboration, launched just before the Covid-19 pandemic, produced several memorable milestones for South African football, both on and off the pitch.

Together, the two organisations celebrated the crowning achievement of Banyana Banyana’s historic triumph at the 2022 CAF Women’s Africa Cup of Nations, followed by their qualification for the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup in Australia and New Zealand.

Among their most impactful initiatives was the release of a special-edition black kit designed to raise awareness about gender-based violence.

The jersey was memorably worn by Banyana Banyana during their run to the Round of 16 — a first for South Africa at a FIFA tournament.

The partnership also encouraged public participation in football fashion through the “Designed By You” campaign, which allowed fans to submit jersey designs.

The competition was won by South African designer Lwazi Cedrick Ngcungama, whose creativity earned national recognition.

Le Coq Sportif also introduced some of the most distinctive kits in recent years, including the silver “Ivory” jersey worn by Bafana Bafana during their bronze-medal finish at the 2024 Africa Cup of Nations in Côte d’Ivoire — a symbol of modern design and innovation.

Another highlight was the pink kit worn by Banyana Banyana against England, supporting the Pink Drive campaign for breast cancer awareness.

SAFA CEO Lydia Monyepao acknowledged the success of the partnership.

“Our relationship started with many challenges but inspired a lot of on-field success for all our national teams, specifically our senior teams, Bafana Bafana and Banyana Banyana.

“We want to thank Le Coq Sportif for the partnership and wish them well in their future endeavours.”

Ernst van den Berg, Director of Le Coq Sportif South Africa, added: “From ground-breaking kit designs to shared historic achievements, it has been a privilege to stand alongside SAFA and the players who inspire the nation.”

While SAFA has yet to announce a new technical sponsor, reports suggest global brands Adidas and Puma are leading contenders to take over the contract.