South African Fans Divided After Malema Urges Boycott of FIFA World Cup
- EFF leader Julius Malema called for a South African boycott of the 2026 FIFA World Cup amid political concerns
- Debates arose on social media as football fans expressed divided opinions on Julius Malema's boycott stance
- US immigration policies under Trump fuelled calls for protest against the upcoming World Cup in America
- Briefly News spoke exclusively to football journalist Mandla Biyela on the issue and he spelt out what he believes should be done
As the 2026 FIFA World Cup continues to be overshadowed by political uncertainty, Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) leader Julius Malema has added his voice to calls for a boycott of the global showpiece.
Source: Getty Images
The football tournament is scheduled to take place from 11 June to 19 July 2026 and will be co-hosted by Mexico, Canada and the United States of America. However, the event has been clouded by concerns over US immigration policies under President Donald Trump.
Trump’s partial travel bans on several African and non-African countries mean some supporters may be barred from entering the United States, even if they secure World Cup tickets. FIFA has further fuelled uncertainty by stating that possession of a match ticket does not guarantee the issuance of a visa to enter the US.
In addition, Trump has instructed Immigration and Customs Enforcement to arrest and detain undocumented migrants. These measures have drawn widespread criticism and renewed calls for a boycott of the tournament. Former FIFA president Sepp Blatter is among the high-profile figures who have openly supported such calls.
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Malema urges SAs to boycott the FIFA World Cup
After Sports Minister Gayton McKenzie publicly expressed support for ICE, Malema took a firm stance against the United States, calling on South Africans to stay away from the tournament, which he believes is unsafe.
The outspoken opposition leader has been openly antagonistic towards Trump and has clashed with him on several occasions in the past.
Speaking to the SABC last week, Malema categorically stated that South Africans should boycott the FIFA World Cup. He cited US immigration policies and the recent travel ban list, describing them as a violation of human rights.
“We cannot guarantee the security of our fans if they are allowed in. It is not safe to go to America, not only during the World Cup. This is not the time. It is dangerous,” Malema said.
He also called on the national football team to take a stand, previously stating,
“South Africa, Bafana Bafana must officially withdraw. We must boycott the World Cup in America and boycott anything that has to do with America.”
Fans divided over Malema’s World Cup boycott call
Football supporters reacted with mixed views following Malema’s comments, with opinions sharply divided on social media.
@Andyklaas1 wrote:
“He tried this boycott nonsense a few times in South Africa and it failed dismally. He now wants to take his failure to the rest of the world.”
@DonaldMakhasane said:
“We are fully behind him as South Africans.”
@DJWEZ77 commented:
“Lol, it’s unbanned for all countries. People who have World Cup tickets will get a 90-day visa.”
@Ta2edGangsta added:
“Well, he can’t go anyway. Besides the fact that he cannot travel to the US, he will be baking bread in Oom Piet’s bakery.”
@GATSHENISAM posted:
“But can’t call for boycott of foreigners in our schools, busy with other people’s business.”
@Daarvalhy reacted:
“I am sure everyone will follow the plan. The US must be so afraid. Good lord.”
Source: Getty Images
Briefly News spoke to football journalist Mandla Biyela, who believes the debate requires a measured approach rather than an emotional reaction.
Biyela argued that while concerns around US immigration policies cannot be dismissed, history shows that sporting boycotts often affect players and supporters more than political leaders. In his view, withdrawing from a global tournament of this magnitude would ultimately punish Bafana Bafana’s squad, many of whom have spent years working towards the opportunity to compete on football’s biggest stage.
He added that visa uncertainty is a legitimate issue, but one that should be addressed through diplomatic channels between SAFA, government authorities and tournament organisers. According to Biyela, structured engagement would likely yield better clarity and protection for supporters than a blanket boycott call.
Ultimately, he stressed that the national team’s priority must remain on preparation. Dragging players into political tensions, he warned, risks disrupting focus and morale at a crucial stage in their campaign.
FIFA World Cup Bafana Bafana match details
Briefly News previously reported that FIFA has confirmed the fixtures, match dates, venues, and kick-off times for Bafana Bafana ahead of the 2026 World Cup, which will be co-hosted by Mexico, Canada, and the United States.
The announcement follows the tournament draw held on Friday, 5 December 2025, in Washington, DC.USA President Donald Trump was also present during the event.
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Source: Briefly News
