South Africa World Cup midfielder Jayden Adams dies at 25

By Fatima Yusuf — 11 July 2026 — 3 min read

Jayden Adams, a midfielder for South Africa and Mamelodi Sundowns, has died at the age of 25. Adams featured in all three of his country’s group matches during the recent World Cup campaign. The cause of his death has not yet been officially released.

The minister of sport, Gayton McKenzie, issued a statement expressing profound shock at the passing of Adams. McKenzie highlighted Adams as one of South African football’s brightest young talents, noting that the nation mourns alongside his family, teammates, and supporters who witnessed his development from an academy prospect to an international player.

FIFA president Gianni Infantino also extended his condolences, remarking on the sadness of Adams’ passing just weeks after his participation in South Africa’s World Cup campaign. Infantino conveyed his thoughts and sympathies, along with those of FIFA and the global football community, to Adams’ family, friends, and teammates. He stated that the Bafana Bafana and Mamelodi Sundowns star would be greatly missed.

Club and International Career

Adams played a significant role for South Africa in the 2026 World Cup, starting two of the three group stage matches. He was in the starting lineup for the 2-0 loss to Mexico and the 1-1 draw with the Czech Republic. He also came on as a substitute in the 1-0 victory against South Korea. Despite the death of his grandmother, Marianna, the day before the match against the Czech Republic, Adams still played in that game.

South Africa exited the tournament in the round of 32 after a defeat to co-hosts Canada. Adams was an unused substitute in that match, which took place on June 28. McKenzie recalled reaching out to Adams to offer condolences following his grandmother’s death, noting Adams’ humble and appreciative response. He added that Adams’ decision to wear the national jersey and give his all for his country during that difficult time demonstrated a depth of character and professionalism beyond his years.

Adams’ club, Mamelodi Sundowns, confirmed his passing in a statement. The club’s chairman, the Motsepe family, the board of directors, technical team, players, management, staff, and supporters all expressed their deepest condolences to his family and friends. They prayed for comfort and strength for the Adams family and everyone who knew him.

Prior to joining Mamelodi Sundowns, Adams came through the youth system at Stellenbosch FC, becoming the first academy product to sign a professional contract with the club. He made 139 appearances for Stellenbosch FC, contributing to their victory in the 2023 Carling Knockout. He moved to Mamelodi Sundowns in January 2025. Adams dedicated his medal from the Sundowns to his late Stellenbosch teammate Oshwin Andries, who died in 2023.

Tributes from the Football Community

The South African Football Players Union (SAFPU) also released a statement, expressing devastation at the untimely passing of the Mamelodi Sundowns and Bafana Bafana midfielder. The union highlighted that Adams had recently represented South Africa at the 2026 World Cup, carrying the hopes of the nation with pride, courage, and distinction. They described his passing as an immeasurable loss to his family, teammates, clubs, the football fraternity, and the country at large.

The SAFPU extended its deepest condolences to the Adams family, Mamelodi Sundowns, Stellenbosch FC, Bafana Bafana, and all those whose lives he touched. The union’s statement concluded by noting that South African football has lost a gifted player, a proud servant of the game, and a young life that still had much to offer. Police have opened an investigation after a 25-year-old man’s body was found in Schotsche Kloof, Cape Town, on Saturday morning.

The circumstances surrounding this incident are currently under investigation, as confirmed by the Western Cape police spokesperson FC van Wyk. Adams’ death was announced on Saturday, July 11, 2026.

Source: skysports.com