SAFA breaks silence on Hugo Broos contract extension reports

The South African Football Association (SAFA) has strongly denied media reports claiming that Bafana Bafana head coach Hugo Broos has been offered a one-year contract extension.

In a statement released on Wednesday, the national football body addressed recent speculation, labeling the reports as “false, unfounded and misleading.” The association also dismissed separate rumours suggesting the Belgian coach had resigned from his post.

Hugo Broos, Bafana Bafana. — Hugo Broos, Bafana Bafana – Image: IMAGO

SAFA clarified the coach’s current standing, stating, “To set the record straight, SAFA has not issued any contract to any coach in respect of the Bafana Bafana head coach position. Coach Hugo Broos remains under contract with SAFA until the end of July 2026, in accordance with his existing agreement.”

Broos succession attracts many candidates

The organisation expressed its concern over the circulation of these rumours by what it termed “respected media houses,” noting that such reporting creates unnecessary speculation and misinforms the public.

Hugo Broos and Bafana goalkeeper Ronwen Williams at the 2026 World Cup. Image: Imago

Despite Broos’s successful tenure, which includes leading the team to a bronze medal at the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations, SAFA confirmed it is evaluating its options for the future. Insiders have revealed that the association has received over 80 applications for the national team’s head coaching role.

SAFA emphasised that its internal governance processes regarding the technical team are still underway and that no final decision has been made or approved by the National Executive Committee.

SAFA categorial over contract offer reports

Hugo Broos is leaving his role as Bafana Bafana coach. Image: Imago

The association urged media outlets to practice responsible journalism by seeking official comment before publishing claims about its affairs. “A simple request for comment would enable SAFA to verify facts and assist in preventing the publication and circulation of unfounded or unsupported reports,” the statement read.

SAFA assured stakeholders that an official announcement regarding the Bafana Bafana coaching positions will be made once all internal procedures are complete.