Gayton McKenzie defends R30.95m World Cup programme as delivering value

Sports Minister Gayton McKenzie has defended his department’s estimated R30.95 million FIFA World Cup programme, saying it delivered value for South Africa. According to The South African, McKenzie spoke after criticism from the Democratic Alliance (DA) and ActionSA over whether the spending represented value for money.

Minister says programme reached beyond supporting the team

In responses to questions from The South African, McKenzie said the programme extended beyond support for Bafana Bafana at the 2026 FIFA World Cup. He framed the initiative as part of a broader strategy to showcase South Africa internationally and to create economic and cultural opportunities.

“IT WAS ABOUT FAR MORE THAN FOOTBALL”

The minister said the department supported the national team while also promoting South Africa through activations in three host cities. According to McKenzie, the programme created opportunities for South African artists, exhibitors and creatives and promoted tourism, trade, investment and cultural diplomacy.

Accountability, oversight and the reconciliation process

The DA has called for McKenzie to appear before Parliament’s Portfolio Committee on Sport, Arts and Culture to explain the expenditure. According to The South African, McKenzie said he remains accountable to Parliament and will engage through the appropriate parliamentary processes.

ActionSA pressed for a detailed breakdown of the spending, including the minister’s individual travel costs. According to The South African, the department is finalising the reconciliation process and will release the information through the appropriate accountability processes once completed.

Department says spending complied with rules

Responding to transparency concerns, the department told The South African that all expenditure was incurred in accordance with the applicable government procurement legislation and public financial management prescripts. The department also said it welcomes oversight and is committed to transparency and accountability.

Department priorities

According to The South African, McKenzie said the department continues to invest in community sport, sports infrastructure and national teams while pursuing international opportunities that create economic prospects for South African businesses and creatives. He described promoting the country abroad as part of the department’s broader mandate.