FIFA World Cup 2026: Hugo Broos confirms coaching retirement after South Africa's WC exit, says "it is irreversible"
Cape Town, July 10
South Africa coach Hugo Broos confirmed that he will step away from full-time coaching, saying the decision is irreversible after the country reached the World Cup knockout stages for the first time.
He revealed that the South African Football Association wants to retain his services in a different capacity, possibly as an advisor or scout, but he plans to return at the end of July to discuss his future role and bid farewell.
"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.be, as per Reuters.
"I have already had a conversation with the chairman of the South African Football Association. 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," he added.
Broos had already announced before the tournament that he would retire from coaching. However, after South Africa's elimination by co-hosts Canada in the Round of 32 on June 28, the veteran coach reaffirmed his decision to step away from the dugout.
Broos spent five years in charge of South Africa, becoming the country's longest-serving head coach and guiding Bafana Bafana to their first FIFA World Cup qualification in 16 years.
— ANI
Reader Comments
Sad to see him go, but he's given Bafana Bafana a real platform. As a football fan in India, I wish our administrators would give our coaches that kind of time and trust. Five years is a long tenure, and it shows in the results. Salute to his clarity on retirement! 🇿🇦⚽
Hugo Broos has been a class act. Leading a team from a non-traditional football nation to the knockout stages is a huge achievement. His decision to step back when he knows his time is up shows great integrity. South Africa should definitely keep him as an advisor – they need his football wisdom. God bless him!
Unlike some coaches who cling to jobs even after poor results, Broos has the courage to say goodbye. India's football ecosystem could learn from this professionalism. We have too many people holding onto positions for too long. Respect for walking away while you're still on top! 🇮🇳⚽
A brilliant coach who changed South African football forever. His decision to retire is irreversible, but he should definitely stay on as a scout. The passion he brought to the game is unmatched. After years of hard work, he deserves a relaxed life. All the best, Coach Broos! 🏆
Honestly, I'm a bit torn. While I admire his decision, I think he could have stayed for another cycle. South Africa have young talent and he's the best person to develop them. But if he feels it's time, who are we to question? Bafana Bafana are in a
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