Sports Minister Gayton McKenzie has clarified South Africa’s position regarding calls for African nations to boycott the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
The calls follow travel restrictions introduced by US President Donald Trump on several countries, citing national security concerns among other reasons. Additional outrage has stemmed from a series of executive orders signed since Trump assumed office, including a decision barring South Africa from attending this year’s G20 Summit in Miami, Florida.
Briefing the media on key departmental developments in Pretoria on Wednesday, McKenzie made it clear that South Africa would not support any boycott of the global showpiece.
“Football should not become a casualty of geopolitics. The FIFA World Cup is the biggest sporting event on Earth. It is a celebration of the global game, and it belongs to the players and the supporters of the world. South Africa is not subject to any travel ban. Bafana Bafana have qualified for the first time since 2002, and we want to see South Africans travelling to the United States in their numbers to support the national team. Football must unite people and not divide them even further,” he said.
McKenzie further revealed that his department is pursuing strategic partnerships with key sponsors and stakeholders to promote Brand South Africa during the tournament. Plans are underway to roll out creative campaigns showcasing the country’s tourism, music, art and culinary excellence on the global stage.
The Minister urged all South Africans to rally behind the national team and proudly fly the country’s flag. He expressed confidence that the department remains on track to advance transformation and social cohesion through major sporting platforms, including local fixtures such as the Soweto Derby, as well as international events like LIV Golf and Formula One.
Meanwhile, the countdown to the 2026 FIFA World Cup is officially underway, with 100 days remaining before 48 national teams compete for football’s ultimate prize.
Bafana Bafana, drawn in Group A, are set to face Mexico, South Korea and a European qualifier in the group stages.
