The race to lead the South African Football Association (SAFA) is gathering momentum ahead of the elective congress scheduled for September, with the exact date and venue yet to be announced.
Sports, Arts and Culture Minister Gayton McKenzie has opted to remain neutral in the contest, saying he values both incumbent president Danny Jordaan and challenger Sandile Zungu as close friends.
Speaking during the funeral service of late Bafana Bafana and Mamelodi Sundowns midfielder Jayden Adams in Stellenbosch on Saturday, McKenzie said he would not choose between the two candidates.
“Both Danny Jordaan and Sandile Zungu are my friends, and my votes for the SAFA presidency go to both of them. As a result, my final word is: let the best man win,” said McKenzie.
His remarks come as campaigning intensifies ahead of one of the most anticipated SAFA elections in recent years.
AmaZulu FC chairman Sandile Zungu officially entered the race promising to usher in what he describes as “a new era” for South African football. The businessman believes the association requires fresh leadership after Jordaan’s lengthy tenure at the helm.
Zungu has argued that while Jordaan has made important contributions to South African football, particularly in helping the country secure and successfully host the 2010 FIFA World Cup, it is now time for a leadership transition.
According to Zungu, no organisation should depend on one individual for an extended period, saying new leadership brings fresh ideas, renewed energy and innovative solutions to long-standing challenges.
If elected, Zungu has pledged to rebuild trust in SAFA through improved governance, transparency and accountability. He says the association must become financially sustainable while ensuring resources reach regions, local football associations and grassroots structures.
Among his key priorities are strengthening youth development programmes, investing in coaching and referee education, improving football infrastructure, attracting new commercial sponsors and ensuring both men’s and women’s football receive equal opportunities to grow.
He has also committed to building stronger relationships with professional clubs, schools, universities and corporate partners to create a football ecosystem capable of producing world-class players and coaches.
Zungu believes South Africa has enough football talent to consistently qualify for major international tournaments and compete successfully on the African continent and the global stage.
A key pillar of his campaign is restoring confidence in SAFA by creating an administration that is open, accountable, and responsive to the needs of football stakeholders across the country.
His campaign has attracted support from several prominent figures within South African football, including former Bafana Bafana captain Lucas Radebe, who has publicly endorsed Zungu’s bid, describing him as a leader capable of taking South African football in a new direction. Other football administrators and former players have also expressed support for his vision of reforming the association.
Jordaan, who has led SAFA since 2013, is seeking another term in office. His supporters point to achievements that include improved national team performances in recent years, stronger relations with FIFA and CAF, and the continued growth of women’s football under his administration.
Besides Jordaan and Zungu, other candidates have also indicated their intention to contest the presidency, setting the stage for a closely watched election that could shape the future direction of South African football.
With the SAFA elective congress expected to take place in September, football stakeholders across the country will be watching closely as delegates decide whether to retain Jordaan’s experience or embrace Zungu’s promise of change. The association is still expected to announce the official date and venue for the elections.
