South Africa head coach Hugo Broos has issued an apology after facing intense backlash for comments made about 20-year-old defender Mbekezeli Mbokazi.
The controversy began when Mbokazi arrived late to the AFCON 2025 camp following a trip to the U.S. to finalize a transfer to Chicago Fire.
An incensed Broos publicly lashed out at the youngster’s “unprofessional attitude,” at one point stating:
“I can assure you he’s a black guy, but he will get out of my room as a white guy because [this] I can’t accept.”
The 73-year-old Belgian also belittled Mbokazi’s move to the MLS, claiming the club was “not even a top team” and questioning if the player would be relegated to their second team.
Following accusations of racism, Broos backtracked, admitting his phrasing was wrong. “I agree that my choice of words was not right and I want to apologize for that,” Broos said, clarifying that his anger stemmed from a desire to see the player receive “proper guidance.” He concluded by stating, “I am neither a racist nor sexist.”
South Africa begins their AFCON campaign against Angola on December 22 in Marrakech.
