Belgian tactician Hugo Broos has confirmed he will no longer continue as head coach of South Africa, describing the decision as irreversible.
The 74-year-old leaves on a high note, having become the first coach to guide Bafana Bafana to the knockout stage of the FIFA World Cup and his contract with SAFA ends after the ongoing 2026 tournament.
However, Broos remains open to staying with SAFA in a different capacity, such as scouting or as an advisor, and will return at the end of July to discuss future options.
“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 told Voetbalnieuws.
“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.
“My wife is happy that I’m quitting, but she’s already warned me: ‘Just make sure you don’t get in my way!’ (laughs) Suppose I have to be in South Africa for a few weeks every two months: why not? Better that than being a nuisance at home because I have nothing to do.”
Broos revitalised Bafana during five-year stint with the team by securing a bronze medal at the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations and successfully qualifying South Africa for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Local tactician Pitso Mosimane is among the leading candidates linked with succeeding him Broos as head coach.
