Bafana coach Hugo Broos considers retirement U-turn: ‘Maybe we can find something in SA’

In Los Angeles

Hugo Broos is considering extending his stay in South Africa beyond the 2026 FIFA World Cup, in a role that might not necessarily be his current position of Bafana Bafana head coach.

The 74-year-old’s five-year contract as head coach of Bafana expires at the end of the global showpiece, where the team has made history by reaching the knockout stage for the first time in the country’s history.

Broos cited his age and desire to be closer to his family in Belgium for retiring from football after the 2026 edition, which is being co-hosted by Mexico, the United States of America and Canada.

The tournament offered the coach a perfect full-circle moment, ending his tenure in part in Mexico, where he had participated as a player in Belgium colours during the 1986 World Cup.

However, Broos has been dropping hints since arriving in Mexico that he might continue to be involved in the national team set-up in some capacity, if there is a desire to keep him from the South African Football Association (SAFA).

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The team’s historic run at the global showpiece has re-energised Broos, who dropped hints in Los Angeles on Saturday and openly declared that he is seriously considering extending his stay in Mzansi.

Broos’ family has been following the action on TV, unlike last year in Morocco, when they found time to join him at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (Afcon).

His family will stay up late on Sunday night, following Bafana in their round-of-32 clash with Canada.

“You know, family is very important,” Broos said. “But this World Cup started on 11 June.

“There’s still school (ongoing) in Belgium, (in fact, it’s time for) exams. Parents can’t take their