Minister of Sport, Arts and Culture Gayton McKenzie signed a co-operation agreement between his department and FIFA Development Zurich AG on Sunday.
The deal between DSAC and world football governing body will result in the establishment of a fully supported FIFA regional development office in Johannesburg. The agreement was concluded on the sidelines of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) final in Rabat with FIFA president Gianni Infantino.
The deal will provide a framework for South Africa to facilitate FIFA’s administrative, movement and operational activities in the country, while the world football governing body assumes responsibility for funding and staffing the regional office, which will serve South Africa and her neighbouring countries.
DSAC’s obligations will include visa assistance, customs support and liaison with relevant authorities, with FIFA carrying the full costs for office operations, personnel and programme delivery.
“This agreement is about ensuring that development projects, coaching support, technical programmes and administrative capacity are accessible within our region,” McKenzie said.
“The regional office will allow FIFA to work more closely with our football federations and while it is hosted in South Africa, it is intended as a resource for the whole Southern African football family.”
McKenzie added: “It is fitting that we sign this agreement during AFCON and here in Morocco. Morocco has delivered a tournament of exceptional standard. The venues, logistics and public participation have demonstrated professionalism and true continental capability.”
McKenzie commended FIFA, the Confederation of African Football (CAF) and the Kingdom of Morocco for contributing to the growth of African football.
“CAF and the Moroccan government have shown how well Africa can stage major competitions. We congratulate them, the teams and supporters on what has been a highly successful tournament,” McKenzie remarked.
