The Minister of Sport, Arts and Culture, Gayton McKenzie, has today announced the 16 winning supporters of the Mzansi to the World Cup Lucky Fans Competition, with four more spots up for grabs in the next few days.
The names from across the 16 Premier Soccer League (PSL) clubs were revealed at the Government Communication and Information System (GCIS) offices in Pretoria.
The competition, Mzansi to the World Cup Lucky Fans, was launched on 29 April 2026 to give passionate supporters an opportunity to represent South Africa at the biggest sporting event on earth, the FIFA World Cup 2026.
“And South Africans responded in their thousands. From every corner of the country, fans sent us their stories, their energy, their pride, and their love for Bafana Bafana. We saw creativity, we saw passion, and most importantly, we saw the true spirit of Mzansi,” said the department.
“This competition was about more than just winning a trip. It was about giving a platform to the voices of our people — the fans who stand by their teams through every victory and every challenge.”
Mckenzie added, “All entries were reviewed by an independent adjudication panel. Each submission was assessed on clear criteria: the level of enthusiasm and energy, passion for Bafana Bafana and the World Cup, authentic support for their club, and the strength of their personal story — in other words, why that fan deserves to represent South Africa.
“From this process, one outstanding fan was selected from each PSL club. In addition, an opportunity for (four) wildcard selections will be made public from tomorrow (6 May) ensuring that no great story or undeniable passion is left behind.
“Today, we are proud to announce (the 16 winners) winners — proud ambassadors of South African football. These winners will travel to Mexico to support Bafana Bafana in their opening match of the World Cup.”
Each winner will receive a fully sponsored experience including flights, accommodation, meals and a match ticket. But more than that, they carry something priceless: the hopes, the pride, and the spirit of South Africa.
The names of the winners:
- Bonakale Hlengiwe Nzuza (Orlando Pirates)
- Sebe Thusi (TS Galaxy)
- Adam Mtombeni (Kaizer Chiefs)
- Konelo John Tahlo (Siwelele)
- Ndumiso Zondi (AmaZulu)
- Ernest Jacobs (Stellenbosch)
- Hlekulani Kobe (Magesi)
- Happiness Dumakude (Golden Arrows)
- Vennitious Motswi (Kaizer Chiefs)
- Obakeng Mokgara (Mamelodi Sundowns)
- Mamello Constance Makha (Mamelodi Sundowns)
- Mickey Seroke Mokone (Orbit College)
- Adam Schlosberg (Chippa United)
- Thaven Pillay (Durban City)
- Salmaan Khan (Richards Bay)
- Tshegofatso Sello (Marumo Gallants)
