Broos leaving after World Cup? SAFA provides update on Bafana coach succession

The South African Football Association (SAFA) has revealed the roadmap towards identifying a successor for Bafana Bafana head coach Hugo Broos.

The goal is to have a new coach in place immediately following the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

SAFA Technical Committee Chairperson Jack Maluleke confirmed the plan on the sidelines of a National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting at SAFA House. He stated that with Broos in the final year of his contract, the association is proactively preparing for the transition.

Broos has previously indicated he will not extend his stay beyond his current deal, which concludes after the World Cup.

“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 explained as per SABC. “As a technical committee, we are here to tell you that the process to recruit another coach will be starting soon.”

SAFA looking for top quality Bafana coach

Under the Belgian’s leadership, Bafana Bafana have re-established themselves as a competitive force in African football. His tenure includes a bronze medal finish at the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Ivory Coast and securing the nation’s first direct World Cup qualification in 24 years. Maluleke emphasied that any incoming coach must be capable of maintaining this high standard.

“The standard that Hugo Broos put is high so we must make sure we match that standard. The process will start very soon and we will inform you accordingly through our communication department the process of recruitment,” he added.

SAFA Technical Committee Chairperson Jack Maluleke says the process to appoint Bafana Bafana head coach to succeed Hugo Broos will soon get underway. The new coach will take over immediately after the 2026 World Cup.

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“We will be doing that and once this World Cup comes to an end, at the appropriate time we will call you to announce the successor of Hugo Broos.”

SAFA is considering both local and international candidates to replace Broos. The association is looking for a coach who can integrate quickly and collaborate effectively with its existing technical structures.

Door closed for Broos after World Cup?

The next coach will face an immediate challenge, with the 2027 AFCON qualifiers scheduled to begin in September 2026 and conclude in March 2027.

Maluleke also clarified that the door is not closed for Broos to continue, but he would have to re-apply for the position like any other candidate.

“There are rumours that SAFA is negotiating with Hugo Broos, and as far as I know as a technical chair, we did not go there, but we will open the process,” he said. “If Hugo Broos has an interest to continue, I think he will also make a presentation to say he is available—we won’t close that space.”

“We have to start the process soon because we are aware that immediately after the World Cup, the team must proceed with other qualifiers. We are not going to close the door on anyone, including Hugo Broos.”