Benni McCarthy set to release autobiography

By: Byron Lukas

South African football icon Benni McCarthy has confirmed the release of his much-anticipated autobiography, penned by journalist and commentator Mark Gleeson.

The former Orlando Pirates star and ex-Kenya national team head coach revealed that the book will hit shelves in February 2026. McCarthy shared the cover on Instagram, announcing its partnership with Pan Macmillan South Africa.

A career marked by historic achievements

As the only South African to lift the UEFA Champions League and Bafana Bafana’s all-time leading scorer, McCarthy’s career has spanned giants like Blackburn Rovers, West Ham United, Celta Vigo, Ajax Amsterdam and FC Porto.

According to the publisher, the memoir follows his journey from the gang-ridden Cape Flats to Europe’s elite football arenas, capturing his leap from a determined teenager to a sought-after striker across the Netherlands, Spain and England.

The hurdles behind the headlines

The book also unpacks the hurdles he conquered along the way from confronting local gang leaders to managing difficult coaches and navigating South Africa’s football bureaucracy.

Terry Morris, MD of Pan Macmillan South Africa, said: “We are incredibly proud to announce the publication of Benni McCarthy’s authorised biography.

“Benni’s journey is one of the inspiring South African success stories. This candid and honest book will resonate deeply with readers, not only because of his exceptional sporting success, but because of the grit and determination that define Benni’s character.”

A must-read for 2026

Benni promises to be a must-read sporting biography in 2026, offering an intimate look at the man behind the goals and the headlines.