Bafana Bafana and Mamelodi Sundowns midfielder Jayden Adams, who played in all three of South Africa’s 2026 FIFA World Cup group stage matches, has died at the age of 25. Image: Supplied/SAFA
South African football is in mourning after the death of Bafana Bafana and Mamelodi Sundowns midfielder Jayden Adams. The Jayden Adams death was confirmed by his mentor Brendine Johnson on Saturday 11 July 2026. Furthermore, Adams had played in all three of Bafana’s group stage matches at the 2026 FIFA World Cup before South Africa made history by reaching the Round of 32. As a result, his passing has sent shockwaves through South African football and beyond.
Jayden Adams Death: What Has Been Confirmed
Adams’ mentor Brendine Johnson confirmed the news to Soccer Laduma in an emotional statement. “At this moment, things are still raw. He doesn’t waste time away, being at home with his family. So at this moment, I don’t even have words to say, but we ask that the family’s privacy be respected. Yes, I can tell you that he passed on. Nobody expected this,” Johnson said. Furthermore, Adams’ representatives confirmed the news to the Siya crew. Mamelodi Sundowns asked that the family’s privacy be respected without issuing a formal statement. As a result, tributes began before official confirmation from the club or SAFA.
Adams had been granted two weeks of leave along with other Sundowns World Cup players. He was expected back for pre-season training in Austria next week. The cause of his death has not been officially confirmed by his family, Mamelodi Sundowns or SAFA. Mzansi Today Live will not speculate on the cause of death and urges all media to respect the family during this time.
A Career That Promised So Much
Jayden Adams was 25 years old. He signed his first professional contract in 2020 and became one of the most exciting midfielders of his generation. He developed his game at Stellenbosch FC, where he helped the club win the 2023 Carling Knockout. A move to Mamelodi Sundowns followed, where he won the Betway Premiership and the CAF Champions League in less than two years. Furthermore, he was part of the Bafana squad that won bronze at the 2024 Africa Cup of Nations in Côte d’Ivoire. As a result, his trajectory had marked him as one of the brightest young South African footballers in years.
At the 2026 FIFA World Cup, Adams played in all three of Bafana’s group stage matches. He started the 2-0 defeat to Mexico. He played the historic 1-1 draw with Czechia in Atlanta, a match he started while quietly carrying the grief of losing his grandmother the day before. Furthermore, he was part of the squad that beat South Korea 1-0 in Monterrey to reach the Round of 32 for the first time in South Africa’s history. As a result, his last act in a Bafana jersey was to help write one of the greatest chapters in South African football.
The Loss of Marianna Adams During the World Cup
His death comes weeks after a deeply personal loss during the tournament. His grandmother Marianna Adams, 72, died in Stellenbosch on 17 June 2026, the day before the Czechia match. Jayden started that game and gave everything despite his grief. SAFA president Dr Danny Jordaan paid tribute to Marianna at the time. “This is a massive loss for Jayden’s family, friends and relatives and we join in mourning the loss of his grandmother,” Jordaan said. Furthermore, SAFA noted that Adams gave his all in the match despite the circumstances. As a result, the Adams family has now suffered two devastating losses within weeks of each other.
Tributes Pour In for the Jayden Adams Death
Tributes poured in from across South African football within hours of the news breaking. Players, coaches, supporters and football administrators expressed shock and grief. The international football community also responded as news spread globally. As a result, the outpouring reflects the impact Jayden Adams had on everyone who watched him play.
Mzansi Today Live extends its deepest condolences to the Adams family, Mamelodi Sundowns, SAFA, Hugo Broos and the entire Bafana Bafana family. Rest in peace Jayden Adams.
If you or someone you know is struggling please contact the South African Depression and Anxiety Group on 0800 456 789. The line is free and available 24 hours a day. You can also reach the South African Suicide Crisis Line on 0800 567 567.
For more on Mamelodi Sundowns visit sundownsfc.com.
Editors Note The cause of Jayden Adams’ death has not been officially confirmed by his family, Mamelodi Sundowns or SAFA at the time of publication. Mzansi Today Live will not report on unconfirmed causes of death and urges all media to respect the family’s privacy during this extremely difficult time. This article will be updated as official information becomes available.