Exclusive: Gayton McKenzie on Bafana’s World Cup Return, Lauds USA and President Trump Ahead of 2026

South Africa is officially heading back to football’s biggest stage. For the first time since hosting the tournament in 2010, Bafana Bafana have qualified for the FIFA World Cup, set to be held in the United States next year.

The breakthrough has sparked celebration across the country, none more so than from newly appointed Sports Minister Gayton McKenzie, who has made football reform a top priority since taking office in July 2024.

“Firstly, I need to thank SAFA for keeping their word,” McKenzie said. 

“I met with Danny Jordaan when I first became minister. I said to Danny, here are the two things: I want us to qualify for the World Cup, and if not, you must resign. He shook my hand and said he would deliver and he did. What more do people want me to say now?” he told SportsBoom.co.za. 

Jordaan’s leadership has been under scrutiny in recent years, but with World Cup qualification secured, McKenzie appeared eager to silence critics.

Adidas to Return as Kit Sponsor

In another development, global sportswear giant Adidas announced plans to return as Bafana Bafana’s kit sponsor, replacing Le Coq Sportif when the current deal expires in December 2025.

“I put myself at the forefront to ensure the team has sponsors,” McKenzie added. “When we go to the African Nations Cup, we must look like champions as we rightfully are.”

Admiration for Trump Amid Hosting Controversy

The 2026 World Cup, co-hosted by the USA, Mexico, and Canada, has stirred political debate, especially after US President Donald Trump threatened to remove select cities from the list of host venues over what he called “logistical inefficiencies.”

Despite the controversy, McKenzie had warm words for the American leader.

“I love Donald Trump. He is a president of peace… I love that! I have no problem with him. I’m only going there for the football. Both him and our president support peace. It will be a good World Cup for everyone.”

Trump's return to the presidency has already influenced the tournament’s logistics, but McKenzie shrugged off the political implications, focusing instead on football diplomacy.

VAR Still in Limbo

Back home, McKenzie continues to face criticism over his delayed delivery of VAR technology in South African domestic football a key promise made during his appointment.

“We are in the process of announcing the winning bid soon,” he said. “I don’t get involved in the procurement side of things. There is positive movement with the VAR… don’t worry,” he joked, attempting to downplay growing public frustration.

While McKenzie’s political candour has raised eyebrows particularly his open admiration for Trump, his role in re-energising South African football is hard to ignore. With Bafana Bafana on their way to the USA, and commercial interest ramping up, the road to 2026 could be a turning point for the sport in the country.