South Africa Joins 13 Nations Criticizing UEFA VP's Remarks

South Africa Football Association (SAFA) released a statement on June 14, 2026, alongside 13 other nations, expressing their "profound disappointment" regarding comments made by UEFA President Aleksander Čeferin. The statement followed Čeferin's criticism of the newly expanded 48-team World Cup format, which will debut at the 2026 FIFA World Cup hosted by the USA, Canada, and Mexico.

The joint statement included the Football Associations of Cape Verde, Curaçao, Jordan, Uzbekistan, Congo, Haiti, Algeria, Tunisia, Morocco, Egypt, Ghana, Senegal, Côte d’Ivoire, and South Africa. It expressed deep discontent towards Čeferin’s characterization of certain matches as "uninteresting."

The statement read: "We respectfully but firmly reject these comments. For our countries, there is no such thing as an unimportant World Cup match. For Cape Verde, Curaçao, Jordan, and Uzbekistan, qualification for the FIFA World Cup represents a historic achievement and the realization of a dream shared by generations."

It further emphasized that for nations like Congo and Haiti, rejoining the football world's biggest stage after prolonged absence holds significant meaning for millions of fans who have awaited years, in some cases decades, for this opportunity.

The statement criticized Čeferin's suggestion that certain matches are less significant, deeming it disappointing and neglectful of the efforts, sacrifices, and aspirations of players, coaches, clubs, and supporters worldwide. It highlighted that the journey of qualification involves years of dedication and significant investment.

The message stressed, "Behind every qualification stand years of work and investment. Behind every national team stand entire communities and millions of people who view football as a source of pride, hope, and unity."

Moreover, it asserted that football transcends borders and should not be confined to a select group of nations. The FIFA World Cup is celebrated as the world's greatest football competition due to its ability to unite diverse cultures and histories.

The statement concluded by reaffirming that each nation qualifying deserves respect, stating, "Every team has earned its place on merit. Every supporter has the right to dream. Every match carries meaning for millions of people around the world."

In solidarity, the following federations supported the statement: Algerian Football Federation, Tunisian Football Federation, Royal Moroccan Football Federation, Egyptian Football Association, Ghana Football Association, Senegalese Football Federation, Ivorian Football Federation, and South African Football Association.