Gayton McKenzie calls on white South Africans to rock Bafana jerseys

Patriotic Alliance (PA) leader and Minister of Sports, Arts and Culture Gayton McKenzie has called on white South Africans to show their national pride by supporting the country’s soccer team, Bafana Bafana, just as black South Africans have embraced rugby.

Speaking about unity through sports, McKenzie said rugby has evolved from being a sport “traditionally seen as for whites” to one that is now supported and celebrated by all races. “We have seen that change to a South African sport supported by all races. Black people would buy Springbok shirts and wear them proudly,” McKenzie said.

He urged white South Africans to reciprocate that spirit by backing the national football team. “Soccer was also traditionally seen as black. Now is the time for white people to also rock Bafana shirts,” he added.

McKenzie’s remarks come amid renewed discussions about national identity and social cohesion through sports, following Bafana Bafana’s recent strong performances. The minister has been vocal about using sports as a unifying tool, often emphasizing that pride in national teams should transcend race, class, or background.

“Sports have the power to unite a nation more than any political speech can,” McKenzie recently posted on social media, reiterating his commitment to bridge historical divides through cultural and sporting inclusion.

Analysts have welcomed his comments, noting that visible cross-racial support for national teams could strengthen social cohesion and shared patriotism. “What McKenzie is encouraging is symbolic — it’s about shared ownership of South African victories,” said sociologist Professor Tinyiko Maluleke.

As Bafana Bafana continues to gain momentum, McKenzie’s message resonates as a call for collective pride — one jersey, one nation.