Hugo Broos Steps Down as Bafana Bafana Coach
Hugo Broos has confirmed that he is stepping down as head coach of South Africa’s national team, Bafana Bafana, bringing an end to a five‑year tenure that ranks among the most successful in the country’s recent football history.
The 74‑year‑old Belgian took charge in June 2021 and became the longest‑serving coach in the team’s history. Under his leadership, South Africa secured a bronze medal at the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations, qualified for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, and reached the knockout stage of a major tournament for the first time.
While Broos has made it clear that his coaching career is over, he is not ruling out a continued involvement with the South African Football Association (SAFA) in a different capacity.
Speaking to the Belgian publication Voetbalnieuws, he said, “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.”
Broos revealed that he has already discussed his future with SAFA president Danny Jordaan, who is keen for him to stay on in a technical role, such as an advisor or scout.
He added that will he will return at the end of July to say a final farewell and is curious to see what proposal Jordaan will present.”
The coach’s wife has welcomed his decision to retire from full‑time coaching, though she jokingly warned him not to spend too much time at home. Broos added that he would be happy to visit South Africa every few months if it allows him to contribute to the future development of the national team.
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