Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) leader Julius Malema has called on South Africans to boycott the upcoming FIFA World Cup, citing safety and human rights concerns linked to matches scheduled to be hosted in the United States.

The 2026 FIFA World Cup is set to run from 11 June to 19 July, jointly hosted by the United States, Mexico, and Canada. However, Malema has urged both football fans and the national team, Bafana Bafana, to stay away from the tournament’s American leg.

Malema, a long-time critic of former US President Donald Trump and his policies, referenced America’s immigration laws and recent travel restrictions, describing them as violations of human rights.
Speaking to the SABC, the EFF leader said South Africa could not guarantee the safety of its citizens attending matches in the US.

“We cannot guarantee the security of our fans if they are allowed in. It is not safe to go to America — not only during the World Cup. This is not the time. It is dangerous.”
He further called on the national team to take a firm political stance.

“South Africa, Bafana Bafana must officially withdraw. We must boycott the World Cup in America and boycott anything that has got to do with America.”

Malema’s remarks follow comments from former FIFA President Sepp Blatter, who also advised fans to avoid matches in the United States due to security concerns linked to political tensions.

Gayton McKenzie Disagrees — and Backs Bafana Bafana
In contrast, Minister of Sport, Arts and Culture Gayton McKenzie has encouraged South Africans to attend the tournament, dismissing fears around safety.

Speaking to SportsBlog247.com, McKenzie said fans who follow the correct visa procedures have nothing to worry about.

“If you want to go to the World Cup and you have a visa, what problems do you have? If you go through the proper processes of attaining a visa, you will be fine.”

The minister also defended the US administration’s immigration enforcement policies and warned that a boycott could have serious consequences for South African football.

“People who are saying that we must boycott the World Cup are suffering from cow disease. The repercussions for South Africa would be severe, and we would be banned from international football.”

McKenzie went further by expressing bold confidence in the national team’s chances at the tournament.

“There is no country like South Africa, and I definitely think we will win the World Cup. You may look at stats and all that, but that’s not how football works. I go with my heart — we will win.”