Following the expiry of his five-year contract, Belgian-born coach Hugo Broos has decided to leave the South African senior men’s national team as announced by the South African Football Association (SAFA) on Friday afternoon.
The 74-year-old Broos changed Bafana’s fortunes since taking over as cosch as the South African national team qualified for two successive Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) tournaments as well as the 2026 FIFA World Cup finals, their first ever participation since hosting it in 2010.
On why he turned down an opportunity to continue as Bafana coach, Broos said: “My long absence from my family and lonely moments in South Africa have led me to make this difficult decision. Qualifying for the World Cup 40 years after my participation at the World Cup in 1986 as a player with the Belgian national team brought things full circle.
“Therefore, I will not extend my contract as head coach of Bafana Bafana. From the start, when I accepted the job, I knew clearly which direction I wanted to take, even though the criticism was merciless. Supported by my fantastic staff, these have been wonderful years for me with various highlights and unique moments.
“I worked with people who belonged to the highest level in their field, people who were strangers have become friends for life. I want to thank them for everything. You made it all possible. Never in my 38-year career as a coach has the respect and gratitude been so great. I will cherish all those people for the rest of my life.”
Bafana made history when they reached the second round of the World Cup finals for the first time as they lost to co-hosts Canada in the last-32. During his tenure, Broos led Bafana to 29 wins, 22 draws and 12 losses while scoring 92 goals and conceding 62.
