The countdown to life after Hugo Broos has officially begun.
The South African Football Association (SAFA) has confirmed that the process of finding the next Bafana Bafana head coach will start soon, with the new appointment expected after the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
SAFA Technical Committee chairperson Jack Maluleke revealed the plans during a two-day NEC meeting held at SAFA House, confirming that Broos’ current contract was always expected to conclude after the World Cup campaign.
“For now, we are aware that we are heading to the World Cup, and according to the agreement with the coach this will be his last hurdle,” Maluleke told SABC Sport.
“As a technical committee we are here to tell you that the process to recruit another coach will be starting soon.”
The announcement marks the beginning of a major transition for South African football following one of the most successful periods in Bafana Bafana’s modern history.
Since arriving in South Africa, Belgian tactician Hugo Broos has transformed Bafana Bafana from continental underachievers into one of Africa’s most respected national teams.
Under his leadership, South Africa secured a bronze medal at the 2023 AFCON in Ivory Coast and qualified directly for the FIFA World Cup for the first time in 24 years.
SAFA now faces the difficult task of finding a coach capable of maintaining the momentum and standards established during Broos’ tenure.
Maluleke made it clear that the federation wants a coach who can quickly adapt to the national team environment and work closely with SAFA’s technical structures.
Despite growing speculation that SAFA could offer Broos a contract extension, Maluleke denied that any negotiations have taken place.
However, he also confirmed that the door remains open for the veteran coach should he wish to continue.
“If Hugo Broos has interest to continue, I think he will also make the presentation to say he is available,” said Maluleke.
“We are not going to close the door on anyone — including Hugo Broos.”
Broos has previously recommended his assistant Helman Mkhalele as a strong candidate to continue the project, saying the former Bafana international understands the system and the team culture better than anyone from the outside.
Whoever eventually takes over the role will have little time to settle.
Bafana Bafana are expected to begin their 2027 AFCON qualification campaign in September, shortly after the conclusion of the FIFA World Cup.