Hugo Broos confirms Bafana Bafana coaching exit, open to future SAFA role

Hugo Broos has confirmed that his time as head coach of South Africa’s national team, Bafana Bafana, has come to an end, although the veteran Belgian has revealed that he could remain involved with South African football in another capacity.

The 74-year-old tactician, who took charge of Bafana Bafana in June 2021, brought an end to a successful four-year spell that saw him become the longest-serving coach in the history of the national team.

Broos had previously indicated that his plan was to retire from coaching after the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

However, following Bafana Bafana’s historic qualification for the tournament’s round of 32, questions emerged over whether the experienced coach would reconsider his decision and continue in the role.

The Belgian has now put those doubts to rest, confirming that he will not continue as a coach but leaving the door open for a different position within South African football.

Speaking to Belgian publication Voetbalnieuws from his home country, Broos admitted that his decision to step away from coaching is final but suggested that he could still assist the South African Football Association (SAFA) in a technical or advisory role.

“Will I continue as a coach after all? No, it is irreversible. If they need me for something else, perhaps in scouting, that is something else,” Broos said.

“But football is no longer going to be a part of my life 24 hours a day.”

Broos also revealed that he has already held discussions with SAFA president Danny Jordaan, who is keen to retain his services in a different capacity.

“I have already had a conversation with the chairman of the South African federation. He would like to keep me, but in a different role, as an advisor or something like that,” he explained.

“I will return at the end of July to say a final farewell; I am curious to see what he will propose to me.”

During his tenure, Broos helped transform Bafana Bafana’s fortunes, guiding the team to a bronze medal finish at the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations and overseeing significant progress on the international stage.

His leadership also played a key role in South Africa reaching the knockout stages of the World Cup for the first time in their history.

Despite stepping away from the demanding role of national team coach, Broos admitted he would consider occasional involvement with SAFA, especially if it allows him to contribute without the pressures of full-time management.

“My wife is happy that I’m quitting, but she’s already warned me: ‘Just make sure you don’t get in my way!’” he joked.

“Suppose I have to be in South Africa for a few weeks every two months: why not? Better that than being a nuisance at home because I have nothing to do.”

Broos is expected to return to South Africa at the end of July, where discussions will continue over a potential future role within SAFA as the country prepares for the next chapter following his successful tenure.