Broos Refutes Racism Allegations Against Bafana Defender Mbokazi

Bafana Bafana coach Hugo Broos says his remarks have been taken out of context, insisting that he did not intend to be racist toward Mbekezeli Mbokazi.

Broos was unhappy with Mbokazi’s conduct after the defender arrived late at the Bafana Bafana camp, having missed his flight from Durban to Johannesburg as the team prepares for the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).

Bafana Bafana are currently in camp at the University of Pretoria’s High Performance Centre, where they are finalising preparations for AFCON in Morocco later this month.

Mbokazi had been granted a few days off after helping Orlando Pirates win the Carling Knockout Cup by beating Marumo Gallants at Peter Mokaba Stadium last Saturday. However, when he later joined camp along with other Pirates players, his delayed arrival drew strong criticism from Broos.

In a statement issued by SAFA following accusations of racism, Broos said: “It is unfortunate that my strong rebuke of the player’s conduct and subsequent comments were misinterpreted as racism and sexism. I distance myself from any accusation of racism and sexism.

“It is mind-boggling that the coach would be described in such a manner towards a player he has consistently supported since selecting him for the first time a few months ago.”

Broos also criticised Mbokazi’s agent, Basia Michael, for facilitating the defender’s move from Orlando Pirates to MLS side Chicago Fire. The Belgian coach questioned the decision, making disparaging remarks about the agent and expressing his low regard for the MLS.

SAFA addressed the matter in a further statement, saying Broos’s comments about the agent were meant to highlight the importance of football agents prioritising players’ welfare and long-term development over short-term financial gain.

“The Association noted that a language barrier contributed to the coach’s frustrations not being fully or clearly conveyed during the interview, leading to misunderstandings about his intent,” SAFA said.

“The organisation emphasises that there was no discriminatory motive behind the coach’s remarks. SAFA stressed that in Broos’s four years at the helm, neither players nor staff have raised any issues related to racism, sexism or discrimination of any kind. His forthright approach to issues affecting players and the national team has been credited as a key factor in building the squad’s current strength and unity.”

Bafana Bafana have been drawn in Group B alongside Egypt, Angola and neighbours Zimbabwe, and will open their AFCON campaign against Angola in Marrakech on 22 December.

“SAFA further credited Broos with playing a key role in transforming the national team, highlighting his insistence on high standards and the reciprocal commitment shown by the players,” the statement continued.

“As the Bafana Bafana squad prepares for AFCON and looks ahead to the 2026 FIFA World Cup, the Association urges the public to recognise the coach’s contribution and rally behind the team ahead of the forthcoming continental showpiece.

“SAFA, the players and the staff are fully behind coach Broos, and we are now completely focused on our participation in AFCON in a few days’ time.”