Hugo Broos has not resigned from Bafana Bafana coaching role – SAFA

The South African Football Association (SAFA) has moved to dismiss reports suggesting that Hugo Broos has stepped down as head coach of the national senior men’s team, insisting that the Belgian tactician remains committed to leading Bafana Bafana.

SAFA confirmed that claims surrounding Broos’ departure are “completely false” and that the experienced coach continues to hold his position as the man in charge of South Africa’s national team.

The rumours emerged shortly after Bafana Bafana’s historic campaign at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, where Broos guided the team to a landmark achievement by reaching the knockout stage of the global tournament for the first time in the country’s history.

South Africa secured qualification for the second round after defeating South Korea 1-0 in their final Group Stage match in Monterrey, Mexico. The result marked a significant milestone for Bafana Bafana, who had never previously progressed beyond the opening phase of a World Cup.

Broos returned to South Africa with the team following their World Cup journey before travelling back to Belgium, where he is currently spending time at home. SAFA confirmed that the 74-year-old coach is expected to return to South Africa later this month as preparations continue for upcoming national team commitments.

This is not the first time Broos has been linked with an exit following a successful tournament with Bafana Bafana. Similar speculation surfaced in March 2024, shortly after South Africa claimed a bronze medal at the Africa Cup of Nations in Ivory Coast.

At the time, reports suggested that Broos could take over as head coach of Tunisia, but the rumours were later dismissed, with the Belgian continuing his work with the South African national team.

Since taking charge in 2021, Broos has overseen a major revival of Bafana Bafana, transforming the team into one of Africa’s most competitive sides. His tenure has included an AFCON semi-final appearance and South Africa’s memorable World Cup breakthrough.

SAFA’s latest statement is expected to put an end to the speculation, with Broos set to continue his mission of building on Bafana Bafana’s recent successes and preparing the team for future international challenges.