Hugo Broos Confirms Bafana Bafana Exit After Five Years

Hugo Broos has confirmed he has stepped down as Bafana Bafana head coach, bringing the curtain down on a five-year spell that ranks among the most successful in South Africa’s recent football history.

The 74-year-old Belgian, who took charge in June 2021, leaves as the longest-serving coach in the national team’s history. During his tenure, he guided South Africa to a bronze medal at the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations, secured qualification for the 2026 FIFA World Cup and led Bafana Bafana into the knockout stage of the tournament for the first time.

Broos, however, is not ruling out a continued association with the South African Football Association in a different capacity. Speaking to Belgian publication Voetbalnieuws, he insisted his coaching career is over but said he would consider an advisory or scouting position.

“Will I continue as a coach after all? No, it is irreversible! If they need me for something else, perhaps in scouting, that is something else. But football is no longer going to be a part of my life 24 hours a day,” said Broos.

The veteran coach also disclosed that he has already spoken with SAFA president Danny Jordaan, who is keen for him to remain involved with the federation in a technical role.

He said, “I have already had a conversation with the chairman of the South African federation. He would like to keep me, but in a different role, as an advisor or something like that. I will return at the end of July to say a final farewell. I am curious to see what he will propose to me.”

Broos added that his wife has welcomed his decision to retire from coaching, although she joked that he should not spend too much time at home. He also admitted he would happily return to South Africa every few months if it allowed him to help shape the future of the national team.