The South African Football Association (SAFA) has secured a landmark sponsorship agreement with Standard Bank, with Africa’s largest bank by assets coming on board as an official partner of South Africa’s national football teams from 2026 onwards.
The partnership will see the bank support Bafana Bafana, Banyana Banyana and junior national teams, strengthening development structures and boosting competitiveness on the continental and global stage.
The announcement comes at a key moment for Bafana Bafana, who are set to compete at the 2026 FIFA World Cup from 11 June to 19 July 2026 in the United States, Canada and Mexico. Meanwhile, Banyana Banyana, the 2022 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations champions are preparing for this year’s continental tournament.
SAFA President Dr Danny Jordaan said the partnership reflects the level of investment South African football requires to remain competitive internationally, adding that Standard Bank’s backing will strengthen national teams and development pathways.
Standard Bank South Africa CEO David Hodnett described the sponsorship as a natural extension of the bank’s commitment to sport and community development, noting football’s unique ability to unite South Africans and inspire national pride.
South Africa’s national teams have delivered strong performances in recent years, with Bafana Bafana claiming bronze at the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations before qualifying for the 2026 World Cup, while Banyana Banyana impressed on the global stage at the 2023 Women’s FIFA World Cup.