HERMAN GIBBS
4 June 2026 — In a moment that embodies both hope and talent, Lennart Karl, the teenage sensation from Bayern Munich, has been named in Germany’s squad for the FIFA World Cup 2026.

At just 18 years and 109 days old, Karl’s remarkable ascent from the FC Bayern Campus to the grand stage of international football is a testament to his dedication and skill.

The forthcoming World Cup is poised to showcase an array of promising young talents, with Karl leading Germany’s charge. Barely a year ago, he was battling on the pitch with the Under-17s, demonstrating brilliance that has since propelled him into the senior team.

This newfound position not only magnifies his potential but highlights the shifting dynamics of talent in contemporary football.

Across the globe, young footballers are seizing opportunities to display their abilities on the world stage, and the World Cup is a celebrated platform where these rising stars can shine. Among the leagues of emerging talent is 17-year-old Gilberto Mora from Mexico, who will also feature prominently at the tournament.

The attacking midfielder, who plays for Liga MX club Tijuana, made headlines in 2025 by becoming the youngest player to debut in the CONCACAF Gold Cup.

The mantle of the youngest player at a World Cup still belongs to Northern Ireland’s Norman Whiteside, who famously took to the field at the tender age of 17 years and 41 days during the 1982 tournament. Yet, with the evolution of football talent today, records continue to be challenged, as the likes of Mora and Karl prove it’s possible to disrupt the status quo and redefine expectations.

For young athletes like Karl and Mora, this World Cup could serve as a launching pad for future success.

Fans and analysts alike will be closely scrutinising their performances, but will also forge their legacies within the history of football.

As the global football community gears up for 2026, all eyes will undoubtedly be on these promising talents, eager to witness how they navigate this prestigious stage.

As young stars like Lennart Karl emerge on the world stage, football’s future looks incredibly bright, full of bold promise and untapped potential.

Picture credit: fifa.com

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2 June 2026 – Bafana Bafana have arrived at their base camp in Pachuca, Mexico, ahead of the start of the 2026 FIFA World Cup next week.

The team arrived in Mexico on Tuesday in high spirits after a long trip from Johannesburg, South Africa, that included a two-hour refuelling stop in the island country of Cape Verde just off the West African coast.

A huge media contingent was waiting at the airport and outside the team hotel, with locals saying that interest in Bafana Bafana is at a record high, as the opening match of the global tournament will be between the hosts, Mexico, and the South Africans at the Estadio Azteca on June 11, 2026.

All the players and personnel are in camp in Pachuca, including the Team Doctor Tshepo Molobi and Head Performance Analyst Sinesipho Mali.

Bafana Bafana assistant coach Helman Mkhalele and team head of security, Mdu Mbatha, are the only outstanding members of the team, but they have also secured their US visas and travelled to Mexico in the afternoon (South Africa time) on Tuesday.

The South African senior men’s national team will be based in Pachuca for the World Cup, and they will train at the Universidad del Futbol.

Coach Hugo Broos’ charges are staying at the Camino Real Pachuca hotel, located just outside Pachuca.

A traditional mariachi band, a global symbol of Mexican identity, welcomed Bafana Bafana at their team base in Pachuca, Mexico.

COPY and PIC: SAFA

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3 June 2026 — For most teenagers, an athletics competition is a test of nerves and preparation.

For 17‑year‑old Marlon Kayster from a farming community in Porterville in the Western Cape, it became a moment when he was noticed far beyond the track.

At the Athletics South Africa All Age Groups Championships held in Germiston on 26 March 2026, the Grade 11 learner produced a 100m sprint time that left officials, coaches and spectators in awe as he crossed the line in 10.31 seconds. The time made him the fastest under‑18 sprinter in South Africa, and currently the fastest young man in the world for his age group.

The performance has opened doors to international competition. Marlon has been selected for the World Wide Scholarships (WWS) Western Cape Schools Athletics Tour, where he will compete in Italy and Sweden during June and July against some of the world’s top young athletes.

He has also qualified to represent South Africa at the Under-20 AAU Junior Olympic Games in the United States in August.

Behind Marlon’s world-leading run lies a quieter story of family commitment, long hours of training, and access to education made possible by support from the KAL Trust, an employee benefit programme of the KAL Group, a JSE-listed diversified Agri, fuel, and lifestyle retailer.

Marlon is the son of Wilbert Kayster, a grain operations employee at the Group’s Agrimark Grain Piketberg silo. Financial assistance from the Trust has helped the family secure schooling, accommodation, and sporting essentials, allowing Marlon to focus on both his studies and his development as an elite athlete.

“I was very emotional,” Marlon recalls of his world-leading performance. “I know how much hard work went into it, and when it finally paid off, it meant a lot.” Despite the global attention the performance attracted, he remains understated about his achievement. “For me, it felt very normal. I just did what I trained to do.”

Marlon’s journey has been shaped by trade-offs and routine. On a typical day, he balances schoolwork with afternoon training sessions that run well into the evening, followed by competitions during the athletics season. “There is a lot of discipline involved,” he says.

As an athlete, Marlon competes for Boland Athletics, representing the province at national championships while continuing his schooling at Porterville High School. The school environment, he believes, has played an important role in his development. “We take part in strong competitions, and academically everything is also very good,” he says.

For Wilbert Kayster, applying to the KAL Trust was about opening doors he otherwise could not. “I applied to the KAL Trust because I wanted to give my son a real chance to succeed,” he explains. “We could see Marlon’s potential from a young age, but without the right education and support, it would have been very difficult. Porterville High School offered an environment where he could grow academically while pursuing his sporting interests, but I couldn’t afford the costs. The Trust made it possible, and it changed everything for us.”

Since Grade 8, the Trust has provided financial assistance towards Marlon’s school fees, with the most recent support in January 2026 contributing to tuition, hostel accommodation, school uniform and sports kit. According to Marlon, the impact has been felt across his entire family. “It helps my parents and gives us opportunities we would not have had otherwise,” he says.

A central figure in Marlon’s development has been his longtime coach, Jacobus Wes, who began coaching him at age 11. Wes describes Marlon as a focused and grounded athlete who has grown steadily over time.

“He knows what he wants and what he wants to achieve,” Wes says. “He is ambitious, but he also works very hard. What stands out to me is not only his talent as an athlete but also his character. He has developed as a person, and that is just as important.”

Wes believes Marlon’s journey is still unfolding. “This is a long road,” he says. “If he keeps the attitude he has now and continues believing in his abilities, he can go very far.”

MEDIA RELEASE: Sam Pugh

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2 June 2026 – As Bafana Bafana prepares to enter the global arena of football, they can breathe a sigh of relief with two members of their tour contingent staff set to join them in Mexico on Wednesday.

On Tuesday morning, Danny Jordaan, the President of the South African Football Association (SAFA), announced that Bafana’s assistant coach, Helman Mkhalele, and the team’s head of security, Mdu Mbatha, have successfully secured their US visas.

This development could see the duo departing for Mexico as early as tonight, ensuring they reunite with the team as preparations for the 2026 FIFA World Cup intensify.

This announcement comes after Mkhalele and Mbatha were initially left behind when the national squad boarded a chartered flight to Mexico City on Monday. Visa complications had prevented their travel, a setback affecting the team’s logistics and international preparations for the prestigious tournament.

However, thanks to the swift intervention by the Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO), coupled with support from the US Embassy, the pair have been granted permission to travel.

Jordaan expressed relief at the resolution of this troubling issue, “tating, “I can confirm that Helman and Mbatha have got their visas, and they will be leaving to join the team. Tomorrow, all of them will be “ogether.”

He further extended his gratitude to the US Embassy for their cooperation during this challenging time, acknowledging the vital role they played in ensuring that all players could assemble in Mexico ahead of their crucial friendly matches and tournament commitments.

The Bafana Bafana squad, now complete, is set to be based in Pachuca, approximately two hours from the bustling capital. They will play their final international friendly against Jamaica on Friday. This match serves as an essential warm-up before the team kicks off their Group A campaign against the hosts, Mexico, at the iconic Azteca Stadium on the 11th of June.

The recent visa hurdles initially delayed the team’s departure, as over half of the travelling party, including several players, were unable to obtain their visas in time for their originally planned weekend travel.

With these administrative challenges now resolved, the focus will shift to the on-field preparations as the national team aims to make a significant impact in the upcoming World Cup.

The post Bafana Bafana staffers fly out to Mexico after securing US visas! first appeared on Cape Dreams.

Race 1

1 NADIA NERINA ran a great race on debut, with natural improvement expected from this well-bred filly; she will be hard to beat. This race is packed with some nicely bred newcomers; keep an eye on the betting trends, and any market confidence could prove crucial.

Race 2

3 WHIRLWIND quickened up like a smart filly in the making when beating her field impressively on the 1st of April, she was given five points for that good win up the straight at Hollywoodbets Kenilworth, even though she tackles a stronger field here, she looks progressive and should go very close to winning again. 6 PINK PIGEON never runs a bad race, she is honest, and she tries hard, on her current form, she must have a serious each way chance. 5 BERRY’S BOOGIE won a gutsy race on the 27th of April, she was given three points for that win last time, if the conditions turn up on the soft side, she will run a massive race, watch her closely. 1 SHESGOTCLASS is much better than her last run. In the hope that she bounces back to her best form, she will be competitive.

Race 3

5 CRAZY LITTLE THING travelled like a winner when finishing third behind Vercicat on the 27th of April. The form of that race has worked out well, with Lava Strike winning recently. If she brings her recent form to the races again on Sunday, she will go close to winning. 4 SWIFT SERENITY is in great form, she steps up in trip now to 1200m, on her current form, she must have a good chance of a place. 1 AUTUMN RUSH is much better than her recent start behind Kituba; the drop in trip might help her improve. Watch her closely at a fair price. 7 LOVE HER MADLY has run three nice races in succession. She will be just off the speed early and will do some good work late.

Race 4

4 SPARKLING SKY has run two excellent races in succession. She is a big filly with big action. This looks to be the perfect race for her to exit the maiden ranks. She will be hard to beat from a good draw. 7 UP IN FLAMES ran a great race with the blinkers fitted last time. If she gets some luck in running from a tricky draw, she will be competitive. Include her in all bets. 5 LIEFLING improved to run a much better race at Hollywoodbets Kenilworth on the 15th of April, she will love the step up in trip to 1600m. 3 GIDDY UP GRACE never runs a bad race, the blinkers have been fitted, and she steps up in trip again to 1600m, she will be right there in the finish from a neat draw.

Race 5

1 JOU LEKKER DING has been rested for 62 days. She quickened up well to win a good race on the 30th of March. She will be just off the speed early and storming home late. Watch her closely from a good draw. 3 PENTOLINA is much better than her recent run. Top jockey Richard Fourie sticks with this filly; she should have no excuses from a good draw on Sunday. Include her in all bets. 6 MY ONLY WEAKNESS didn’t have much luck late in running last time, she is consistent at this level, if she finds herself in a good position turning for home, she will have a nice winning chance. 9 CUTIE PATOOTIE won a super race on the 18th of April. She is still improving. If she beats the bad draw, she will make them all work for victory.

Race 6

1 HAMPSTEAD HEATH is much better than her last run; she has dropped even further in the ratings. Jockey Calvin Habib knows this mare well. In the hope that she bounces back to her best form, she will go close to winning. 11 CLAIR DE LUNE has run two lovely races in succession; she is very speedy out of the gates, and she will be right there in the finish again on her current form. 7 GIRL LIKE US could be the value play in this tricky race; her form is solid. If the gaps open at the right time for this individual, she will be competitive in the finish. 4 GIN PALACE needed her last run; she will enjoy the 1200m trip.

Race 7

9 SHEZARIPPER ran a great race in the Grade 3 Winter Nursery on the 3rd of May. The yard thinks highly of this filly; with the right run in transit, she will go close to winning. 3 TAG AND RELEASE won a super race last time. He is very quick out of the gates. Even though he carries top weight in this listed race on Sunday, he has plenty of quality and will try to lead them from start to finish. 4 GRAPES OF WRATH has rested for 92 days. She quickened smartly to win a good race on debut. There is no doubt that she will love the extra 200m. She looks like a serious filly in the making. 8 REEF RUNNER powered away from his field impressively on the 16th of May. Richard Fourie sticks with this unbeaten colt; he could be anything. Watch him closely here.

Race 8

7 MEG’S LEGACY was given a terrific ride by Jockey Calvin Habib on the 1st of April. She was given four points for winning a good race last time. She looks progressive. If she brings her last run to the track again, she will go close to winning. 6 BLUE LAGOON was just touched off in a driving finish by Easy Money last time, she is in a good space, and her form is super consistent, there is no doubt that she will be right there in the finish. 13 ENTICEMENT won her maiden impressively on the 18th of April, she has a good cruising speed, if she has made further improvement at home, she can win again. 10 FOG IN FINLAND has improved with every start, she won with absolute ease on the 3rd of May, her chances must be respected in this tricky race.

Race 9

12 STARTING POINT has rested for 62 days. She was mighty unlucky in her last start. If she gets some cover early and the gaps open at the right time, she will go very close to winning. 6 LOVE SHACK has rested and changed stables on the 27th of March. She has dropped nicely in the ratings. If she doesn’t need the run badly after a small break, she will be competitive at a reasonable price. 7 HERITAGE RIDGE moved up well to run a good race behind Easy Money on the 3rd of May; she will be cherry ripe for this race on Sunday. Include her in all bets. 11 COUNTRY TIME is in great form at the moment. Trainer Paul Reeves has done a wonderful job with this mare; she always has a money chance at this level.

COPY: Brandon Bailey. PICTURE: Race Coast

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Johannesburg, 24 May 2026 – Following the excitement of the Toyota SA Outdoor Grand Prix, attention now turns to the Toyota World Cup Qualifier — an intense four-day competition set to challenge both riders and their horses in a battle of nerve, power and precision. Featuring pony riders, juniors, and adult competitors, the event is free to the public, and with all three arenas operating at full capacity, spectators can expect a thrilling showcase of skill, energy, and top-tier competition.

Launched in February, the 2026 showjumping season has been branded the Ultimate 4×4 Series Powered by Toyota, comprising four premier events — including the Toyota Midrand World Cup Qualifier. With the overall series champion set to drive away in a brand-new Toyota Hilux Double Cab Legend, courtesy of Toyota South Africa Motors, the stakes are high from the opening course walk to the final jump-off.

With capacity crowds and world-class course design, only the most precise and composed horse-and-rider combinations will earn their right to a jump-off.

The event will culminate at 13:30 on Sunday, 31 May, with the demanding and unforgiving 1.50m Toyota World Cup Qualifier. Renowned South African course designer Anne-Marie Esslinger — one of the most respected names in the sport — will lead the course build, supported by Eric Bianchi and Frans Rabushakga.

Kyalami Park Club Event Director Heather Mpofu emphasised the scale and significance of the competition:

“Our arenas have had time to rest and recover following the Toyota Easter Festival, while our team and partners have worked tirelessly behind the scenes to prepare for this event. Everything is in place for an exceptional equestrian showcase — from our magnificent horses to our talented riders and passionate supporters.

“Whether you’re a lifelong equestrian enthusiast or a first-time spectator, we look forward to welcoming you to an unforgettable experience.”

Follow on social: Twitter: @ToyotaSA. Facebook: Toyota SA. Instagram: toyota_sa

Facebook: Kyalami Park Club. Instagram: @kpckep

Copy: The PR Machine (caroline@theprmachine.co.za)    Photo credit : Denford Studios.

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South Africa, 25 May 2026 – adidas and Orlando Pirates Football Club reveal the Club’s 2026/27 Home and Away jerseys, a powerful first chapter in the countdown to the Buccaneers’ 90th anniversary celebrations in 2027.

This season pays tribute to the city that gave birth to the Club and to the millions of supporters who carry its spirit across the country. While spread far beyond Johannesburg, the Orlando Pirates supporters remain united by a shared identity – one that is now symbolised in the Club’s iconic crest, a mark of pride, excellence and belonging.

Inspired by granite, a symbol of strength, endurance and unwavering resilience, the Home jersey reflects the very foundation of Orlando Pirates – born from the heart of a community defined by passion, unity and defiance. Just like the Club itself, granite stands the test of time, shaped but never broken.

This unbreakable spirit is reflected in the institution’s unmatched legacy and rich heritage, woven across generations by its founding fathers, footballing icons, passionate supporters, and unforgettable moments that have defined Orlando Pirates as one of Africa’s most iconic football institutions.

The Away jersey, with iconic adidas trefoil, celebrates the soul of the city. It is a tribute to the energy, diversity and heartbeat of its supporters, whose stories, creativity and passion continue to shape the Club’s identity. The design captures the homes of the people, the pulse of the streets, the culture of football fandom, and the deep connection between Orlando Pirates Football Club and the community it represents.

Together, the 2026/27 jerseys tell a story of past, present and future – a visual expression of a club preparing to celebrate 90 years at the forefront of the game.

The product will be available from adidas, Orlando Pirates, and selected wholesale partners from 30 July 2026.

About adidas in Football

adidas is the global leader in football. It is the official supplier of the most important football tournaments in the world, such as the FIFA World Cup, the FIFA Women’s World Cup, the FIFA Club World Cup, the UEFA European Football Championship, the UEFA Champions League & the UEFA Women’s Champions League.

adidas also sponsors some of the world’s top clubs, including Real Madrid, Liverpool, Manchester United, Arsenal, FC Bayern Munich & Juventus.

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The Order of Ikhamanga recognises South African citizens who have excelled in the fields of arts, culture, literature, music, journalism and sport.

According to the Presidency, Erasmus received the Order for his “inspirational leadership in national and international rugby that has propelled the Springboks to repeated Rugby World Cup championships.

“Victory on the field of play has advanced social cohesion among South Africans and raised the nation’s esteem in the international community,” said the Presidency.

Mr Alexander said: “On behalf of SA Rugby, I would like to extend my heartfelt congratulations to Rassie Erasmus on the announcement of his receiving the Order of Ikhamanga in Gold.

“This prestigious honour is a fitting recognition of his outstanding contribution to rugby and to the promotion of social cohesion in our country.

“Rassie’s achievements have united South Africans across communities, instilling pride and inspiring a spirit of togetherness through the game we love. His leadership and vision have left an indelible mark on the sport and on our nation.

“We are honoured to celebrate this milestone with him. Rassie Erasmus is a true son of the South African soil, and this accolade reflects the immense impact he has had both on and off the field.”

Copy and Picture — SA Rugby

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This venture underscores a continued commitment to building a stronger, commercially viable, and fully professional women’s football ecosystem in South Africa. This year, the league will move from a 16-team national format to two eight-team streams.

The structure will reduce the financial burden on clubs, improve matchday experiences, strengthen the broadcast product, and create more high-stakes football throughout the season.

A major feature of this format will be the introduction of a Championship Match, creating a marquee event for fans, sponsors and broadcasters while increasing the excitement around the league. The changes also pave the way for a two-division structure from 2027, introducing promotion and relegation to strengthen competitiveness and long-term sustainability within women’s football.

Alongside the new format, the league will also introduce a refreshed digital platform through nwl.co.za. Fans can look forward to festival match weekends, centrally coordinated event experiences and enhanced broadcast production in partnership with the SABC. Fans can expect awesome matchday experiences, increased television exposure, stronger radio promotion, and improved streaming accessibility where broadcast coverage is unavailable.

SAFA and Hollywoodbets believe the new structure represents more than just a format change – it is a strategic reset that will build a stronger, more sustainable and more exciting future for women’s football in South Africa.

SAFA CEO Lydia Monyepao said: ”The introduction of the festivals for this league will enhance the event experience for fans, level the competition for clubs and enhance the broadcast for viewers at home on the SABC platform. This enables us to increase the number of televised matches on SABC, thereby enhancing Hollywoodbets’ value to sponsors and attracting new sponsors.

“We appreciate the continued partnership with Hollywoodbets and the collaboration in our roadmap to realise the goals of our SAFA Women’s Football Strategy 2025-28, launched last year. Good luck to all the teams with the upcoming season of Super-Era and Super-Rise, and we look forward to the fans experiencing the best of African women’s football.”

Hollywood Group spokesperson, Vuyisile Ngobese, added: “Hollywoodbets has believed in the potential of women’s football since day one. This new format will create a stronger platform for clubs and players and provide a better experience for supporters across the country. Together with SAFA, we remain committed to helping grow and professionalise the women’s game in South Africa.”

The post SAFA and Hollywoodbets unveil new era for women’s football first appeared on Cape Dreams.

Kuse, the 22-year-old southpaw from the Eastern Cape, known as ‘One Way’, secured a unanimous decision over the 32-year-old Filipino champion Jerusalem at Emperors Palace in Johannesburg.

This victory avenged his loss to Jerusalem in October 2025 in the Philippines, where all three judges had scored in Jerusalem’s favour. After that defeat, Kuse’s manager, former world champion Brian Mitchell, believed Kuse had done enough to win, but the team chose to pursue a rematch instead.

Golden Gloves secure the rematch, headlining the “One Way to Redemption” event. This time, Kuse outperformed Jerusalem, who had previously defended his title three times after winning it in Japan in December 2024.

All three judges scored the fight decisively in Kuse’s favour (116–111, 115–112, 116–112).

Despite being knocked down in the 11th round, he demonstrated resilience by finishing the challenging 12-round match strongly.

Under the tutelage of trainer Manny Fernandes, Kuse displayed excellent conditioning, maintaining power and stamina throughout the fight despite the knockdown.

One of the most impressive aspects of the bout was Kuse’s ability to withstand Jerusalem’s strongest attacks. Even Jerusalem’s best punches failed to trouble him, which would have proved soul-destroying for the defending champion.

Fernandes deserves credit for crafting an effective fight plan at the Brian Mitchell Academy.

Kuse comes from Mdantsane, an East London township renowned as a ‘Boxing Mecca of South Africa’ for producing many world champions. However, none of its previous champions had won a WBC title until now.

Notable boxers from Mdantsane include Welcome ‘The Hawk’ Ncita, Vuyani ‘The Beast’ Bungu, Mbulelo ‘Silent Slayer’ Botile, and Masibulele ‘Hawk’ Makepula.

With this victory, Kuse becomes only the fourth South African to hold a WBC title, joining Dingaan Thobela, Sugarboy Malinga, and Kevin Lerena.

Golden Gloves will very likely ensure that his first title defence takes place on home soil.

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