SAFA dismisses claims of racism and sexism against Bafana Bafana coach Hugo Broos

The allegations surfaced on social media after Broos publicly criticised the conduct of young defender Mbekezeli Mbokazi and questioned the role of the player’s agent, after Mbokazi reported late to the national team camp. 

Some of the coach’s comments were subsequently interpreted as discriminatory, prompting widespread debate.

In response, SAFA released a detailed statement dismissing the accusations and stressing that Broos’s remarks were taken out of context and distorted beyond their original football-related intent.

“The South African Football Association has moved to address growing misconceptions suggesting that Bafana Bafana head coach Hugo Broos is racist and sexist,” the statement read.

“These claims arose following the coach’s criticism of a player’s professional conduct and concerns over what he viewed as premature pressure from the player’s agent regarding an overseas move.”

SAFA maintained that Broos’s comments were aimed solely at reinforcing discipline, professionalism and player welfare, and not at targeting any individual based on race or gender. 

The association added that the situation was further complicated by language barriers, which may have caused the coach’s frustrations to be poorly conveyed during the press conference.

Broos also addressed the controversy directly, rejecting the allegations and clarifying his stance.

“It is unfortunate that my strong rebuke of the player’s conduct and my subsequent comments were misinterpreted as racism and sexism,” Broos said. 

“I distance myself completely from any such accusations.”

The association further defended the coach by highlighting his long-standing support of Mbokazi, noting that Broos had personally introduced the defender to the senior national team and consistently backed his development.

“It is mind-boggling that the coach would be portrayed in this manner towards a player he has supported since first selecting him,” SAFA added.

SAFA also clarified that Broos’s remarks regarding the player’s agent were intended to underline the importance of safeguarding players’ long-term development rather than prioritising short-term financial gain.

Emphasising Broos’s four-year tenure with Bafana Bafana, SAFA noted that no players or staff have ever raised concerns related to racism, sexism or discrimination. The association credited the coach’s firm leadership and high standards as key factors in the team’s renewed unity and progress.

With the Africa Cup of Nations just days away, SAFA urged the public to rally behind Broos and the squad as they focus on the continental tournament and longer-term 2026 FIFA World Cup ambitions.