President Cyril Ramaphosa has called on all South Africans to support Bafana Bafana as they prepare to face Mexico in the opening match of the 2026 FIFA World Cup on June 11 in Mexico City.

In just under two weeks, Bafana Bafana will play against co-host Mexico, marking a historic return to the global tournament. This will be the first time the national team has participated in the FIFA World Cup since the country hosted the event in 2010.

In his weekly letter to the nation, Ramaphosa urged all 62-million South Africans to wear the team's colours and fly the National flag.

Emphasising the unifying power of sport, the President highlighted how the team transcends language, race, province, and club.

“For 90 minutes, as they play, we will simply be South Africans standing together behind our national team and behind our flag,” Ramaphosa stated. “United by our flag, inspired by our team. 62-million cheering voices. One dream.”

Ramaphosa acknowledged the challenging journey to transform Bafana Bafana's fortunes and credited the Department of Sport, Arts and Culture, the South African Football Association, leagues, clubs, and sponsors for their ongoing commitment to developing local football and nurturing young talent.

At a recent send-off dinner hosted by the Presidency, head coach Hugo Broos's final 26-man squad was celebrated. Addressing the squad, Ramaphosa challenged the team to bring the trophy home, emphasising that their diversity stood as a powerful reminder to the world of South Africa's united, multicultural democracy.

Reflecting on the iconic moment at the 1995 Rugby World Cup when former President Nelson Mandela wore the Springbok jersey, Ramaphosa noted that sport had an unmatched capacity to break down barriers.

He stressed that Bafana Bafana’s participation in the 2026 tournament carried a similar, profound meaning for the nation.

Just as the national squad has rebuilt itself over the years, the country has also emerged from a prolonged period of difficulty.

With a flourishing Constitution and signs of economic recovery, the President believes the team's journey mirrors the nation's own path to a better future.

“So as we cheer our team on from the stands, at fan zones and in our homes, we should also cheer ourselves on as a country,” Ramaphosa said.