World Cup trophy to arrive in SA as Ramaphosa, McKenzie lead celebrations

Sports Minister Gayton McKenzie and President Cyril Ramaphosa are scheduled to officially receive the iconic prize amid much fanfare.

The visit forms part of Coca-Cola’s global World Cup Trophy Tour, a build-up to the 2026 tournament to be hosted jointly by Mexico, Canada and the United States. 

Several international stops are planned worldwide, with South Africa featuring prominently on the African leg.

While organisers are yet to publicly confirm names, a number of international football legends are expected to be in attendance during a series of high-profile events as the trophy moves from Johannesburg to Cape Town over the weekend.

Speaking to SABC Sport, McKenzie confirmed both his and the President’s involvement and used the occasion to strongly dismiss calls for South Africa to boycott the World Cup.

“I, together with the president of South Africa, Mr Cyril Ramaphosa, will be receiving the World Cup trophy. We are encouraging everyone to follow the journey of our players who worked so hard to qualify,” McKenzie said.

“A lot of people are calling for us to boycott the World Cup – that is absolute rubbish. We will not be boycotting. Siyaya eMexico, Siyaya eCanada, Siyaya eAmerica. If you don’t want to watch, switch off your television.”

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A gala dinner has been confirmed at the Sandton Convention Centre, with dignitaries and former Bafana Bafana players in attendance. 

The celebrations then shift to Cape Town, where fans will be given the opportunity to pose for photographs with the trophy – though only President Ramaphosa will be permitted to touch it.

Bafana have been drawn in Group A against hosts Mexico, South Korea and the winner of the European play-off scheduled for March.