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EZEKIEL PHALANA
The South African Football Association (SAFA) presidential election is shaping up to be a closely watched contest, with incumbent president Danny Jordaan set to face businessman and football administrator Sandile Zungu in a two-horse race for the leadership of South African football.
SAFA’s Governance Committee confirmed in August that both Jordaan and Zungu had met the requirements to contest the presidential election, formally setting the stage for a battle between the experienced incumbent and a challenger promising a different approach to the administration of the game.
Jordaan, who has served as SAFA president since 2013, brings extensive experience in football administration at both national and international level. He was re-elected in 2022 after defeating Ria Ledwaba and Solly Mohlabeng, securing 186 votes.
Zungu, meanwhile, enters the contest with considerable experience in South African football and business. His campaign presents an alternative leadership vision at a time when questions around SAFA’s governance, financial sustainability and the broader development of football are receiving increased attention.
The election comes at an important moment for South African football. Bafana Bafana’s historic progress to the knockout stage of the 2026 FIFA World Cup has raised expectations around the continued growth and competitiveness of the national game, while SAFA also faces the challenge of strengthening its financial position and administration. SAFA’s 2024 financial statements previously showed liabilities exceeding assets by R141.2 million, highlighting the scale of the financial challenge facing the association.
With two candidates now confirmed, the election is expected to generate significant interest among SAFA members and the wider football community. The contest between Jordaan and Zungu represents more than a choice between two individuals; it is a decision about the direction, leadership and future priorities of South African football.
As the campaign gathers momentum, both candidates will be under pressure to present clear and credible plans for developing the game at grassroots level, strengthening national teams, improving governance and building a sustainable football administration.
The SAFA presidential election therefore promises to be a defining moment for South African football, with the football community watching closely as Jordaan seeks to continue his leadership while Zungu aims to bring a new chapter to the association.