Siyay’eAmerica: Standard Bank host spectacular Fifa World Cup 2026 send-off for Bafana Bafana in Rosebank
Fifa World Cup 2026
Main sponsors Standard Bank rolled out the blue carpet at their Rosebank HQ today to give Bafana Bafana a roaring, seven-story send-off. Photo: Backpagepix
Image: Backpagepix
Banking giant Standard Bank gave Bafana Bafana a fitting send-off ahead of the 2026 Fifa World Cup at their headquarters in Rosebank on Wednesday morning.
The national team’s main sponsors rolled out the 'blue' carpet in style as players walked into a packed foyer through a guard of honour formed by staff members, while others watched from the building’s seven floors. Loud chants created a euphoric atmosphere, while a designated choir ensured the team received a warm welcome by proudly singing the national anthem.
The atmosphere appeared to drive home the reality of the moment for the players: Siyay’eAmerica (We are going to America). The players cut reserved figures as they took their seats, soaking in the occasion.
Safa president Danny Jordaan, who was called on stage to address the gathering, struck a humble tone as he invited coach Hugo Broos, captain Ronwen Williams and senior players Nkosinathi Sibisi and Themba Zwane to join him.
“We have a collection of champions here. We have Themba Zwane and Ronwen Williams, who’ve just returned from Morocco where they became part of the first PSL side to win the CAF Champions League twice,” Jordaan said.
“We also have Nkosinathi Sibisi, who just won the local Premiership. So, we are surrounded by champions, under the guidance of coach Hugo Broos.”
The entire 32-member squad later joined Williams on stage to a rapturous standing ovation and loud cheers. The players also created a memorable moment for a young Bafana supporter in the audience by agreeing to later sign his shirt, with Williams leading the gesture on stage.
Two Standard Bank staff members also walked away with major prizes. One won a trip to watch Bafana’s opening World Cup match against co-hosts Mexico at the Azteca Stadium on June 11, while the other will attend Banyana Banyana’s opening Wafcon match against Tanzania in Morocco on July 25.
The event ended on a high note with renowned South African musician Zolani Mahola, who featured on the 2010 World Cup anthem Waka Waka, taking fans down memory lane with a performance of the classic song.
When all was said and done, attention shifted back to Broos, who is set to announce the final 26-member squad at the Sefako Makgatho Presidential Guest House alongside President Cyril Ramaphosa later in the day.