Who succeeds Hugo Broos? The leading contenders to coach South Africa after 2026

South Africa coach Hugo Broos has confirmed that he will retire from management after leading Bafana Bafana at the 2026 FIFA World Cup in the United States, Mexico, and Canada.

His impending departure has already sparked debate over who should succeed him, with several experienced and emerging coaches tipped to take over the national team.

Broos, appointed in May 2021, is the longest-serving South Africa coach since the country’s return to international football in 1992.

The Belgian has restored stability and discipline to the side, guiding them to third place at the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations.

However, his choice of successor — assistant coach Helman Mkhalele — has divided opinion.

Mkhalele, a former international, has served as Broos’s assistant and worked with South Africa’s youth teams, but he lacks experience as a head coach at either club or national level.

His potential appointment would be a gamble, especially given the depth of coaching talent available in South Africa and abroad.

Bradley Carnell

The former Bafana Bafana full-back has built an impressive coaching résumé in the United States.

After stints as an assistant with Free State Stars and Orlando Pirates, Carnell moved to Major League Soccer, where he managed St. Louis City to the top of the regular-season standings in their debut campaign.

Now with Philadelphia Union, he has established himself as one of Africa’s most successful coaches abroad.

Gavin Hunt

A household name in South African football, Hunt is the most experienced coach in the domestic league’s history, now in his 28th consecutive season.

The 61-year-old has won multiple Premier Soccer League titles and once served as an advisor to Pitso Mosimane during a World Cup qualifier in 2006.

Hunt has long expressed his desire to manage the national team.

Steve Komphela

Komphela’s leadership credentials are well known. A former national team captain, he has previously served as caretaker coach and led both the under-20 and under-23 sides.

Having managed Kaizer Chiefs and assisted at Mamelodi Sundowns, he understands South Africa’s football culture intimately and has worked with many of the current generation of players.

Benni McCarthy

South Africa’s all-time leading scorer and first World Cup goal scorer, McCarthy has evolved into a respected coach.

After successful spells at Cape Town City and AmaZulu, he joined Manchester United’s coaching staff under Erik ten Hag before recently taking on a national team role with Kenya’s Harambee Stars.

His experience across different footballing environments makes him a strong contender.

Rhulani Mokwena

Known for his tactical depth and intensity, Mokwena is among the most progressive young coaches on the continent.

After guiding Mamelodi Sundowns to four league titles, he moved to North Africa, where he is managing MC Alger and has qualified them for the CAF Champions League group stage.

His ambition and modern approach appeal to many within South African football.

Pitso Mosimane

The most decorated African coach of his generation, Mosimane boasts three CAF Champions League titles and experience across Africa and the Middle East.

Having previously led Bafana Bafana between 2010 and 2012, he may welcome a second opportunity to complete unfinished business.

His tactical acumen and continental pedigree make him a clear favourite for the role.

As Broos prepares for his final chapter, the South African Football Association faces a critical decision — one that will define Bafana Bafana’s trajectory beyond 2026.