The South African Football Association (SAFA) has moved to quash speculation surrounding Hugo Broos’ future, insisting the Belgian remains Bafana Bafana head coach despite his recent comments suggesting he had retired.

Broos sparked confusion after stating in an interview that he had retired following South Africa’s historic 2026 FIFA World Cup campaign.

However, SAFA has dismissed reports of his departure, stressing that the 74-year-old is still contracted to lead the national team.

In a statement, the association said: “The South African Football Association (SAFA) has dismissed claims that mentor Hugo Broos has left his role as the head coach of the South African senior men’s national team.

“Broos remains as the head coach of Bafana Bafana and reports claiming the contrary are completely false.”

SAFA added that it was not the first time the Belgian had been linked with an exit after enjoying success with the national team.

The association recalled that shortly after Bafana Bafana secured a bronze medal at the 2024 Africa Cup of Nations in Côte d’Ivoire, Broos was also linked with the Tunisia national team, reports that ultimately proved to be unfounded.

The latest speculation comes after Broos guided South Africa to their best-ever FIFA World Cup performance by reaching the Round of 16 for the first time in history.

Bafana Bafana booked their place in the knockout stages after beating South Korea 1-0 in their final group match in Monterrey, Mexico, before exiting the tournament in the last 16.

SAFA also confirmed that Broos is currently at his home in Belgium following the World Cup and is expected to return to South Africa later this month.