By: Lonwabo Mtyeku | Photo Credit: Supplied
Excitement and national pride reached new heights in Johannesburg as Standard Bank Group and South African Football Association (SAFA) hosted an official send-off event for Bafana Bafana ahead of the upcoming FIFA World Cup in Mexico.
Held at Standard Bank’s Rosebank headquarters on Wednesday, the event brought together executives, employees, football stakeholders and supporters to celebrate and encourage the national team as preparations intensify for football’s biggest global spectacle, which kicks off in just over two weeks.
As the premier sponsor of Bafana Bafana and associate sponsor of Banyana Banyana, Standard Bank reaffirmed its long-standing commitment to South African football and grassroots development.
Kabelo Makeke, Chief Executive Officer of Standard Bank PPB South Africa, described football as a powerful symbol of unity and national identity.
“Football is the heartbeat of our nation. When Bafana Bafana take to the field, they carry with them the hopes, pride and spirit of millions of South Africans,” said Makeke.
“As a committed partner of SAFA and a long-standing supporter of South African football, Standard Bank is honoured to stand alongside the team as they prepare to compete on the world stage.”
Makeke added that the partnership reflects the bank’s belief in the transformative power of sport to inspire communities, empower young people and showcase South Africa globally.
The national team’s final preparations will include an international friendly against Nicaragua national football team at Orlando Stadium — also known as Amstel Arena — on 29 May 2026 before the squad departs for Mexico.
The highly anticipated fixture will serve as the team’s final test before their FIFA World Cup campaign officially begins on 11 June 2026 at the legendary Estadio Azteca.
Standard Bank has called on South Africans to fill Orlando Stadium in large numbers and create a memorable atmosphere as the nation rallies behind the team.
Bonga Sebesho, Head of Sponsorship at Standard Bank, said football continues to unite South Africans across all backgrounds.
“Football remains a powerful force for unity and national pride in South Africa. Occasions such as these underscore the important role that sport plays in bringing communities together,” Sebesho said.
“We wish the team every success as they prepare for the FIFA World Cup.”
SAFA President Dr Danny Jordaan welcomed the support from Standard Bank, praising the partnership and the send-off initiative.
“It is a good feeling to finally come to our main partner Standard Bank’s main office for the team to meet all the staff, including the executives,” said Jordaan.
“We value all the efforts by the bank to create the send-off breakfast as a demonstration of support for SAFA and Bafana Bafana. We are focused on delivering value through performance of the team and positive value for our partner through the sponsorship.”
As anticipation builds across the country, Bafana Bafana’s return to the global stage is being viewed as more than just a football campaign — it represents a moment of collective hope, unity and national pride.
Supporters are now being encouraged to wear the green and gold, pack the stands at Orlando Stadium and stand firmly behind the national team as they prepare to represent South Africa on the world stage.
