Bafana Bafana head coach Hugo Broos has confirmed that he will step down from his role after the conclusion of his contract, bringing an end to a transformative five-year spell in charge of South Africa’s senior men’s national football team.
The 74-year-old Belgian announced that he will not continue as head coach following South Africa’s historic 2026 FIFA World Cup campaign, during which Bafana Bafana reached the knockout stages for the first time in the country’s history. Although he briefly hinted after the tournament that he could reconsider retirement, Broos has now made it clear that his decision to leave coaching is final.
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Speaking after the World Cup, Broos said he has no intention of taking another coaching job but remains open to staying involved in South African football in a different capacity.
He revealed that discussions have taken place with the South African Football Association (SAFA) about a possible advisory or scouting role once his coaching duties come to an end.
Bafana coach Hugo Broos confirms stepping away from top job
https://t.co/kxydWdAc2J— Sunday World News (@SundayWorldZA) July 10, 2026
When he took over the team
Broos was appointed Bafana Bafana coach in May 2021 and oversaw a remarkable turnaround for the national team.
Under his leadership, Bafana Bafana secured qualification for the 2026 FIFA World Cup after a 16-year absence and produced one of the country’s most successful periods in recent football history.
His tenure also included a third-place finish at the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations, helping restore belief in the national side.
Despite reports suggesting he had already left his position, SAFA has clarified that Broos remains Bafana Bafana’s head coach until his contract officially expires later this month.
Also see: Hugo Broos weighs future after Bafana Bafana’s World Cup elimination
The association dismissed claims of an immediate departure, saying the Belgian will return to South Africa before formally ending his tenure.
Broos’ departure will mark the end of one of the longest and most successful coaching spells in Bafana Bafana’s modern history. His successor will inherit a squad that has regained confidence on the international stage and will be expected to build on the foundations laid during the Belgian’s tenure.
As South African football prepares for a new chapter, Broos leaves behind a legacy of stability, discipline and renewed competitiveness that has earned him widespread respect from players, supporters and football administrators alike.
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Feature Image: Getty Images/ Photo by Sebastian Frej
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