Bafana’s World Cup qualification rekindled nation’s hope: Ramaphosa

President Cyril Ramaphosa led the nation in rallying behind Bafana Bafana ahead of the FIFA World Cup during their send-off dinner at the Presidential Guesthouse in Pretoria on May 27, 2026.

President Cyril Ramaphosa has wished the national men’s’ soccer team Bafana Bafana well as they prepare to jet off to the FIFA World Cup in Mexico, Canada and the US next week.

Coach Hugo Broos announced the 26-member team at the Presidential Guesthouse in Pretoria on Wednesday evening.

President @CyrilRamaphosa this evening leads the nation in rallying behind Bafana Bafana ahead of the FIFA World Cup. 🇿🇦⚽

The send-off dinner also marks a significant moment for South African football as Head Coach Hugo Broos unveils the final 26-man squad that will carry the… pic.twitter.com/GULuAaNtmd

— The Presidency 🇿🇦 (@PresidencyZA) May 27, 2026

Ramaphosa says Bafana Bafana’s qualification for the World Cup after two decades has rekindled the nation’s hope.

He says, “History has presented Bafana Bafana with this opportunity to rise anew and to take your rightful place at the highest echelons of world football. Seize this opportunity. Do even more than your best.”

Ramaphosa adds, “Make us even prouder than we are tonight. We wish you the very best as you head off to the tournament. I will be there when you lift the trophy on the 19th of July and yes, I will declare it a public holiday.”