SA Sports Minister Gayton McKenzie has paid tribute to the late Mamelodi Sundowns and Bafana Bafana midfielder Jayden Adam, who passed away on Saturday, 11 July 2026.
Despite various unconfirmed reports, the cause of Adams’s death has not yet been established. Adams was part of the Bafana Bafana squad that made history by reaching the 2026 FIFA World Cup knockout stages for the first time, ultimately bowing out in the round of 32 at the hands of co-hosts Canada.
He joined the reigning CAF Champions League title holders, Mamelodi Sundowns, during the January 2025 transfer window period from Stellenbosch FC.
Since donning the Sundowns colours, he has been a revelation for the club. His stellar performances helped Masandawana secure the 2026 Champions League crown, a continental trophy that had eluded the Tshwane giants since 2016.
However, in a devastating turn of events just weeks after returning from Bafana Bafana’s historic World Cup campaign in North America, Adams has passed away at the age of 25.
BAFANA BAFANA STAR JAYDEN ADAMS DESCRIBED AS ONE OF THE BRIGHTEST STARS
In a statement on Saturday, McKenzie appealed to the public to refrain from speculating about Adams’ cause of death and to respect his family’s privacy, while describing the player as one of the brightest stars in South African football.
“It is with profound shock and a heavy heart that I have learnt of the passing of Jayden Adams, midfielder for Mamelodi Sundowns and Bafana Bafana, at the age of 25,” said McKenzie.
“South African football has lost one of its brightest young talents, and our nation mourns alongside his family, his teammates and the millions of supporters who watched him grow from a promising academy prospect into a full Bafana Bafana international.
“I will always remember watching Bafana’s match against Czechia in Atlanta. I recall noting how unusually quiet Jayden seemed on the bench in the second half, after he had been substituted – it was only afterwards that we learnt he had taken to the field that day carrying the fresh grief of losing his grandmother, Marianna, who had passed away only hours before kick-off.
“The cause of Jayden’s passing has not yet been confirmed, and I wish to appeal to members of the media and the public to exercise restraint and compassion, and to refrain from speculation, while his family and Mamelodi Sundowns are given the space and privacy they need at this incredibly difficult time. Any official information will be communicated by the appropriate parties in due course.”
RELATED STORY: How AFCON snub forced Jayden Adams into deep career reflection
We at FARPost extend our deepest, heartfelt condolences to the family, friends, teammates, and loved ones of Jayden Adams during this incredibly painful time. May his soul rest in eternal peace.
