May 7 – The German Bundesliga has strengthened its footprint in South Africa after signing a strategic Memorandum of Understanding with the South African Football Association (SAFA), further underlining the league’s long-term push into the African market.
The agreement, signed by Bundesliga Media and SAFA, is built around five core development areas and includes the launch of Bundesliga Dream South Africa – described as the first initiative of its kind in Africa.
Mirroring the ‘Bundesliga Dream’ project that has already benefited India, China and Thailand, the programme will give South Africa’s Under-16 national team the opportunity to train and play in Germany, creating a direct pathway between local development structures and Bundesliga environments.
The move comes as the Bundesliga continues to expand its presence in South Africa, where it says it is now the fastest-growing European league. Much of that work has been driven through its Johannesburg office, which has focused on grassroots development, coaching and fan engagement alongside Bundesliga clubs.
“As football globalises, long-term relevance is built by contributing to the long-term development of the game,” said Peer Naubert of Bundesliga Media.
“This Memorandum of Understanding with the South African Football Association reflects that approach. Together, we are strengthening football in the Rainbow Nation by developing talent, supporting structures and creating pathways from grassroots to the professional stage.
“The Bundesliga is already the most active and fastest-growing European league in South Africa, and this collaboration is an important step in continuing that journey with a long-term perspective.”
The SAFA mentioned how the agreement is centred on youth development and technical exposure.
“The Bundesliga is one of the top five leagues in the world, so the learnings and exchanges are vital for the technical development of our youth structures,” said SAFA chief executive Lydia Monyepao.
“The partnership will allow our teams to execute their talent on a global stage and prepare for upcoming tournaments, ensuring necessary support and guidance from the Bundesliga and their clubs.”
The announcement follows a series of Bundesliga-led projects across Africa over the past year. In 2025, the league partnered with Canal+ to launch a training programme for aspiring sports journalists, while this season it also became the first European league to introduce a dedicated League Pass streaming offer in parts of Africa, including South Africa, Kenya and Nigeria.
On top of this, Bundesliga side RB Leipzig have announced an upcoming tour of South Africa later this month, with the Bundesliga club scheduled a post-season visit from 26–30 May as part of the league’s broader regional engagement strategy.
Contact the writer of this story, Harry Ewing, at [email protected]