Sport Minister Gayton McKenzie has made a bold and ambitious
declaration, stating that he believes Bafana Bafana can win the 2026 FIFA
World Cup in the USA, Mexico, and Canada.
Speaking at a sponsorship announcement for the Hisense and Pitso Mosimane
Soccer Schools in Pretoria, McKenzie expressed unwavering confidence in the
current state of South African football, citing success across all national
team levels.
“Football has never been in such a good state,” McKenzie asserted. “From the
Under-17s, the Under-20s, Banyana Banyana, to Bafana Bafana, we are coming.
Whether they like it or not, we are going to America, and there is nothing
that can stop that.”
The Minister framed the 2026 tournament as a historic opportunity, blending
ambition with national pride. “I have never prayed so hard for us to go to
America and come back with the cup. The sweetness of doing it in America, of
taking the cup in America, is something special,” he added.
McKenzie pointed to the consistent performances of South Africa’s national
teams as the foundation for his optimism. “Bafana Bafana has done so well.
Banyana Banyana has done so well. Amajimbos have done so well. Amajita has
done so well, and I’m proud,” he stated.
While acknowledging existing challenges within the sport, the Minister
insisted that the immediate focus must be solely on preparation and triumph.
“It’s not to say we don’t have problems, but now is not the time to focus on
that. Now is the time to prepare for the game. The commissions can come
later, after we come back with the cup.”
He concluded with a powerful image of ultimate victory, saying, “We want the
President of America to hand over the cup to our guys in America.”
