Hugo Broos reveals why he is leaving Bafana Bafana
Former Bafana Bafana head coach Hugo Broos has explained the reasons behind his decision to step down after the expiry of his contract with the South African Football Association (SAFA).
The Belgian mentor confirmed that spending long periods away from his family and dealing with loneliness while living in South Africa ultimately convinced him that it was time to retire from football.
“My long absence from my family and the lonely moments in South Africa have led me to make this difficult decision,” said Broos.
The 74-year-old added that leading Bafana Bafana to the 2026 FIFA World Cup was one of the greatest achievements of his career, especially as it came 40 years after he represented Belgium as a player at the 1986 FIFA World Cup.
“Qualifying for the World Cup 40 years after my participation at the 1986 World Cup with the Belgian national team is something very special. Therefore, I will not extend my contract as head coach of Bafana Bafana,” he said.
On Friday afternoon, during a press conference at SAFA House, SAFA president Danny Jordaan paid tribute to Broos for his contribution to South African football.
“I want to say, Hugo Broos, thank you very much,” said Jordaan.
Broos was appointed Bafana Bafana head coach in 2021, replacing Molefi Ntseki. During his five-year spell, he transformed the national team into one of Africa’s most competitive sides.
He guided South Africa to a bronze medal at the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations, a place in the knockout stages at the 2025 AFCON, and made history by leading Bafana Bafana to the knockout rounds of the 2026 FIFA World Cup for the first time ever.
