December 16 – South Africa manager Hugo Broos has denied accusation of racism and sexism following comments on the late arrival of Mbekezeli Mbokazi at the latest national team camp.
Bafana Bafana are preparing for friendlies with Angola and a locally-based Ghana side ahead of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, but Broos has been in the eye of the storm following remarks addressing Mbokazi, who plays for the Chicago Fire in the United States.
In a statement at a news conference, Broos said: “I am deeply hurt by what’s happened in recent days. And the worst part is my family and my wife, my children and grandchildren, have also suffered,” he said.
“I played with people of colour, coached with and worked with them in Nigeria and Cameroon and now for four years in South Africa.”
“You can ask any of them what kind of man I am. Maybe some will say he’s a bad coach, maybe some others will say he’s a good coach and maybe they will call me stubborn – but no one will call me a racist.”
Last week, the Belgian criticised Mbokazi for ‘allowing fame to go to his head’ after he missed a flight from Durban to join the team camp in Pretoria. He said: “I can assure you, he’s a black guy and he will leave my room as a white guy.” He also referred Mbokazi’s agent as a “nice little woman who is his agent”.
Broos explained: “When Mbekezeli Mbokazi was introduced into the team six months ago by his coach at Pirates, we immediately saw his talent. He was rewarded with selection for Bafana Bafana and became a regular player.
“His life changed and suddenly he had many friends. Some meant well, others tried to take advantage of him.”
The United Democratic Movement (UDM) had launched a complaint to the South African Human Rights Commission over what it alleged were “racist and sexist remarks”.
“I let my fatherly side get the better of me in my response because I saw things could go wrong,” explained Broos. “It would be a waste if Mbokazi did not pursue the career he is destined for due to a lack of proper guidance; guidance he needs as an inexperienced, young, humble, talented player.”
“I agree my choice of words was not the right one and I want to apologise for that, but I never wanted to make a sexist or racist comment. I am neither a racist or a sexist.”
Contact the writer of this story, Samindra Kunti, at [email protected]