CAF President Patrice Motsepe Mourns South Africa Star Jayden Adams After His Death

Confédération Africaine de Football (CAF) President Dr Patrice Motsepe has expressed deep sorrow over the death of South Africa international and Mamelodi Sundowns midfielder Jayden Adams, describing the midfielder’s passing as a painful loss to African football.

In a condolence message released on Saturday, Motsepe paid tribute to the 25-year-old, who represented South Africa at the 2026 FIFA World Cup and helped Mamelodi Sundowns win the 2026 TotalEnergies CAF Champions League in Rabat.

On behalf of CAF and its 54 member associations, Motsepe extended his condolences to the South African Football Association (SAFA), its president Dr Danny Jordaan, Mamelodi Sundowns Football Club and the late footballer’s family.

“On behalf of CAF and its 54 Member Associations, Dr Motsepe conveys his heartfelt condolences to the South African Football Association (SAFA), and its President, Dr Danny Jordaan, Mamelodi Sundowns Football Club and to the Family of Jayden Adams. May Jayden Adams’ soul rest in peace,” the statement read.

Before joining Mamelodi Sundowns in January 2025, Adams built his reputation at Stellenbosch FC, where his impressive performances earned him a place in the Bafana Bafana squad. He went on to establish himself as a regular member of the South African national team.

The midfielder recently featured in all three of South Africa’s group-stage matches at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, helping the team reach the knockout stage before they were eliminated by co-hosts Canada in the Round of 32. He also played a key role in South Africa’s run to the semi-finals of the 2024 Africa Cup of Nations.

During his time with Mamelodi Sundowns, Adams won the South African Premiership title and the 2026 CAF Champions League, further cementing his status as one of the country’s brightest football talents.

South Africa’s Minister of Sport, Arts and Culture, Gayton McKenzie, also paid tribute to the midfielder, describing his death as a huge loss to the nation’s football community.

Authorities have not yet disclosed the cause of Adams’ death. South African police say investigations are ongoing to determine the circumstances surrounding the incident.