Motsepe hails ‘special human being’ Jayden Adams at emotional funeral in Stellenbosch

Mamelodi Sundowns chairman Thlopie Motsepe has led tributes to Bafana Bafana midfielder Jayden Adams, describing the 25-year-old as a “special human being” at an emotional funeral service in Stellenbosch on Saturday.

Adams, widely regarded as one of South African football’s most promising midfield talents, died last week at the age of 25. Hundreds of mourners gathered in his hometown to say goodbye, including family, friends, teammates, coaches and leading football officials from across South Africa and the continent.

Motsepe, speaking during the service, urged those present to remember Adams not only for his impact on the pitch but for his character away from football.

“Yes he was a footballer but first and foremost he was a son, brother and father, a very special human being,” Motsepe said. “Of course he made a name for himself by bringing joy to everybody by playing the game he loves most and made us all so happy.”

Club success and lasting legacy

Motsepe reflected on Adams’ role in one of Mamelodi Sundowns’ most successful eras, highlighting the midfielder’s contribution as the club collected the CAF Champions League title and multiple domestic trophies during his time in Tshwane.

“We were just honoured as Mamelodi Sundowns to be able to achieve a very special moment in our club’s history with Jayden there beside us and that’s going to stay on the walls and memories of Sundowns,” he said.

Adams’ journey from Stellenbosch FC to Mamelodi Sundowns and then into the Bafana Bafana set-up turned him into one of the most admired young midfielders in the country. His performances at international level helped Bafana Bafana reach the FIFA World Cup knockout stages for the first time in South Africa’s history, a landmark achievement that further elevated his profile.

Warmth, humour and a ‘complete footballer’

While his on-field qualities were widely praised, Motsepe chose to dwell on Adams’ personality and influence within the dressing room, recalling a player who balanced a quiet demeanour with a sharp sense of humour.

“His presence, he had a special way of being seen and heard but without really saying much,” Motsepe said. “I loved how he’d poke fun at some of the more serious guys in his own special way but of course on the pitch, Steve Barker last week mentioned he was a complete footballer.”

The remarks underlined the affection in which Adams was held by those who worked with him closely, both at Stellenbosch FC under coach Steve Barker and later at Mamelodi Sundowns.

Continental football pays its respects

CAF president Patrice Motsepe was also in attendance in Stellenbosch, joining figures from across the South African and African football community to honour Adams’ memory.

The CAF president explained that he had come primarily to relay condolences on behalf of the broader football family on the continent.

“The families and community of Bafana Bafana, Stellenbosch and Mamelodi Sundowns are in a better position to speak today. I’m just here to pass on my condolences from the Motsepe family and of course the 54 nations in Africa whose member associations are part of CAF,” he said.

The service concluded a deeply emotional farewell to a player whose career seemed poised for further success at club and international level. Tributes have continued to arrive from around the football world, as teammates, coaches and supporters reflect on a life and career ended tragically early but remembered for its impact on and off the field.