Ramaphosa Promises Public Holiday If Bafana Win 2026 World Cup
South African President Cyril Ramaphosa says the country will declare a public holiday if Bafana Bafana win the FIFA World Cup on 19 July.
During his presidency, Ramaphosa has witnessed South African sport reach remarkable heights on the global stage.
He was present when the Springboks won the Rugby World Cup in Japan in 2019, and again in France in 2023 when Siya Kolisi lifted the Webb Ellis Cup for the second time after Rassie Erasmus’ side retained the title.
Those achievements surpassed those witnessed by the late Nelson Mandela, who was on stage when the Springboks won the 1995 Rugby World Cup, before Bafana Bafana lifted the Africa Cup of Nations the following year — both tournaments hosted in South Africa.
Former president Thabo Mbeki was also present when the Springboks won the 2007 Rugby World Cup in France.
Now, Ramaphosa has thrown down a major challenge to Bafana Bafana, promising to declare a public holiday should they win the FIFA World Cup.
“You are bringing the FIFA World Cup trophy home,” Ramaphosa said after shaking the players at the player unveiling at the Union Buildings on Wednesday.
“We have seen the immense potential of sport to inspire and unite our country.
“Time and again, we have witnessed South Africans from all walks of life rally behind our sportsmen and women as they compete on the international stage.
“This time will be no different.
“I fully expect to be inundated with calls to declare a public holiday every time you progress to the next round.”
“It has been a long journey to get to this point, where our team is jetting off to the 2026 FIFA World Cup. It has been a difficult road with many challenges.
“What has carried us through is the unwavering commitment of SAFA, government, football clubs, associations, and sponsors to invest in, develop, and strengthen South African football over many years.
“We owe everyone involved a debt of gratitude not only for developing this sport, but also for uniting the nation.
“When you arrive in Mexico City, you will carry with you the dreams of more than 60 million South Africans.
“We are with you, behind you, and beside you all the way.
“Bafana Bafana are our emissaries of hope and the standard-bearers of the national flag.
“The diversity of our squad and technical team reminds the world that in our constitutional democracy there is room and opportunity for all to realise their potential and fulfil their dreams.
“As ambassadors for South Africa, we are counting on you to fully put into practice what your years of training have prepared you for: sportsmanship, camaraderie, professionalism, and teamwork.
“Yet sport is about so much more.
“How the game is played reflects the values of society itself — values such as integrity, humility, respect, tolerance, and inclusivity.
“History has presented Bafana Bafana with this opportunity to rise again and take their rightful place among the highest echelons of world football.”
However, Bafana Bafana have never progressed beyond the group stages of the FIFA World Cup in any of their previous three appearances, including when South Africa hosted the tournament in 2010.
“Seize this opportunity. Do even more than your best. Make us even prouder than we already are tonight,” Ramaphosa continued.
“We wish you everything of the best as you head to the tournament.
“I will be there when you lift the trophy on 19 July.
“And yes, I will declare the following day a public holiday.
“May you have wind in your sails, steel in your veins, and thunder in your boots.”
