Hugo Broos has confirmed that his time as Bafana Bafana head coach has come to an end after more than five years in charge.
The 74-year-old Belgian took over the national team in June 2021.
He went on to become the longest-serving coach in Bafana Bafana history.
Broos confirmed his decision in an interview with Belgian publication Voetbalnieuws.
He said his retirement from coaching is final, but he could remain involved with the South African Football Association in another role.
“Will I continue as a coach after all? No, it is irreversible,” Broos said.
Advisory role possible
Broos said he has already held talks with SAFA president Danny Jordaan.
According to Broos, SAFA would like to keep him involved in a different capacity, possibly as an advisor or in scouting.
“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,” he said.
Broos said he will return at the end of July to say a final farewell.
He added that he is curious to see what SAFA will propose.
Broos said football would no longer take up his life every day.
“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,” he said.
He also said his wife welcomed his retirement, although she joked that he should not spend too much time at home.
Broos said he would be willing to travel to South Africa every few months if it meant contributing to the national team’s future.
Bafana legacy secured
Broos leaves Bafana Bafana as one of the country’s most successful coaches.
During his tenure, he guided South Africa to a bronze medal at the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations.
He also helped Bafana qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
At the tournament, South Africa reached the World Cup knockout stage for the first time.
Broos also changed the team’s direction by trusting younger Premier Soccer League players and demanding higher standards.
His departure closes a major chapter for Bafana, but his influence could still shape the team if SAFA offers him a new technical role.