South Africa’s Dr Thulani Ngwenya appointed FIFA U17 World Cup doping officer

The South African Football Association (SAFA) has confirmed that its Chief Medical Officer, Dr Thulani Ngwenya, will serve at the FIFA U17 World Cup in Qatar.

Ngwenya has been appointed as a Doping Control Officer for the tournament, which will be held from 19 November to 13 December 2026.

The South African doctor said he was grateful for the opportunity to work at another major FIFA event, having also been involved with the senior FIFA World Cup some months ago.

“It is always a great honour and a privilege to be appointed to serve football at the highest level,” said Dr Ngwenya.

He also thanked SAFA president Dr Danny Jordaan and the association’s leadership for their backing during his time with the organisation.

“I would like to sincerely thank the President of the South African Football Association (SAFA), Dr Danny Jordaan, and the entire SAFA leadership for their continued trust, confidence and support over the past 12 years,” he said.

“I remain humbled by this opportunity and will continue to give my very best to represent the Association with distinction, integrity and pride.”

SAFA said Ngwenya was based in Dallas in the United States of America from 7 June to 15 July 2026 for the FIFA World Cup.

During that period, he was assigned by the FIFA Anti-Doping Unit (FADU) to carry out both In and Out-of-Competition Anti-Doping Controls.

Experience across major events

SAFA described Ngwenya as one of the leading officials in the world in his field, highlighting his work with FIFA, the Olympics, CAF, COSAFA and other international tournaments.

“Dr Ngwenya is widely regarded as one of the world’s top officials in the field and often lends his vast experience to FIFA, the Olympics, CAF, COSAFA and many other tournaments on the globe,” SAFA added.

Ngwenya is also the vice president of the CAF Medical Commission.

Among the other highlights of his career, he represented South Africa at the 2024 Olympic Games in Paris.