SAFA Elections 2026: Danny Jordaan vs Sandile Zungu Battle for Presidency
- Football analyst Mandla Biyela broke down what he believes will decide the SAFA presidency between Danny Jordaan and Sandile Zungu on 12 September 2026
- The winning candidate needs backing from at least 28 of SAFA's 52 regions, with Zungu claiming he has secured enough support
- Bafana Bafana bonus delays and VAR implementation emerged as key issues shaping the election debate ahead of Saturday's vote
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Football analyst Mandla Biyela has offered his assessment of Saturday's SAFA presidential election, arguing the outcome will hinge on which candidate's vision delegates believe is right for South African football over the next four years.
Danny Jordaan and Sandile Zungu will contest the SAFA presidency at the elective congress on 12 September 2026. Jordaan is seeking another term, drawing on his long-standing experience within FIFA and CAF structures, while Zungu is mounting what Biyela describes as a genuine challenge with a distinct campaign message.
The 28-Region Test
To win the presidency, either candidate must secure the backing of at least 28 of SAFA's 52 regions. Zungu has publicly stated his campaign has already locked in sufficient support, though the count will only be confirmed when delegates vote on Saturday.
Biyela acknowledged the weight Jordaan's experience carries, saying:
"You cannot ignore what experience brings. Danny Jordaan knows FIFA, CAF and the structures of international football. He has been involved in major football projects in South Africa for decades."
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At the same time, the analyst cautioned against dismissing Zungu's prospects:
"This is a genuine contest. Zungu can have a strong campaign message, but he still needs 28 regions. Jordaan, meanwhile, understands the structures because he has been inside the system for a long time."
Bafana Bafana bonuses and VAR in the spotlight
Two issues have risen to prominence in the build-up to the vote. SAFA has attributed delays in Bafana Bafana bonus payments to international tax compliance requirements in the United States and Mexico. Zungu has pledged to resolve the matter if elected.
Zungu has also called for the introduction of VAR in South African football. Biyela welcomed the discussion but stressed that implementation is more complex than it appears:
"VAR is not simply about buying equipment. You need trained officials, technical infrastructure and proper implementation."
On the bonus dispute, Biyela said the next SAFA president must ensure players are not left unsupported:
"Players are the product of the football system. When Bafana achieve something significant, the administration has to make sure the players are properly supported."
Biyela was clear that whoever wins on Saturday will be measured by what follows:
"Forget the slogans after the election. Judge the next president on results. Are the players better supported? Are the grassroots structures stronger? Are our national teams improving? Is the administration more accountable?"
The SAFA elective congress takes place on Saturday, 12 September 2026.
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Source: Briefly News
