SAFA explains delay in Bafana Bafana’s 2026 World Cup bonuses

The South African Football Association (SAFA) has explained why Bafana Bafana players and support staff are still waiting for their bonuses from the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

According to the association, the delay is linked to outstanding international tax compliance requirements in the United States and Mexico, where Bafana played matches during the tournament.

SAFA said it must comply with federal and state tax laws in the US, as well as Mexican tax legislation, before the outstanding bonuses are processed.

International tax requirements delay payments

Due to the complexity of the requirements, SAFA appointed specialist legal and tax advisers in both countries following guidance from FIFA.

The association said “significant progress” has been made in completing the process.

This includes securing an Employer Identification Number from the US Internal Revenue Service (IRS).

SAFA’s US-based specialists are now finalising the required tax calculations and documentation, while the process of settling the applicable Mexican tax obligations is also nearing completion.

SAFA has received part of World Cup prize money

SAFA confirmed that it has already received a portion of the World Cup prize money.

The association also said all allowances, fees and other payments owed to Bafana players and support staff have been settled.

The outstanding FWC26 bonuses, however, will only be processed once the relevant international tax requirements have been completed.

“SAFA is committed to finalising the process as expeditiously as possible and ensuring that all legitimate bonuses are paid,” the association said.

SAFA responds to media reports

The association also criticised what it described as a practice by some media organisations of submitting last-minute inquiries and setting unrealistic deadlines for responses.

SAFA said complex financial and tax matters require sufficient time for proper consultation before it is able to provide a response.

While acknowledging the media’s role in holding organisations accountable, the association called for responsible reporting and reasonable response periods.

It warned that publishing incomplete information could mislead the public and unfairly damage its reputation.

For Bafana’s players and support staff, the wait for their World Cup bonuses therefore continues while SAFA completes the outstanding tax processes in the US and Mexico.

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