The German Bundesliga has deepened its commitment to African football by signing a formal Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the South African Football Association (SAFA), marking a key step in the league’s ongoing expansion across the continent.
The agreement, inked between Bundesliga Media and SAFA, focuses on five core development pillars and introduces the Bundesliga Dream South Africa initiative — described as the first program of its kind on the continent. Modeled after the successful ‘Bundesliga Dream’ projects in India, China, and Thailand, this initiative will give South Africa’s Under-16 national team the chance to train and compete in Germany, creating a direct development pathway from local structures to the Bundesliga system.
This move comes as the Bundesliga continues to build its presence in South Africa, where it has become the fastest-growing European league. Much of this growth has been driven by the league’s Johannesburg office, which works closely with Bundesliga clubs on grassroots development, coaching programs, and fan engagement.
“In a globalized football landscape, long-term relevance comes from contributing to the development of the game,” said Peer Naubert of Bundesliga Media. “This MoU with SAFA reflects that philosophy. Together, we are strengthening football in the Rainbow Nation by nurturing talent, reinforcing support structures, and creating pathways from grassroots to the professional level. The Bundesliga is already the most active and fastest-growing European league in South Africa, and this partnership is a crucial step forward with a long-term vision.”
SAFA highlighted that the agreement is centered on youth development and technical exposure. “The Bundesliga is among the top five leagues worldwide, so the knowledge exchange is vital for the technical growth of our youth,” said SAFA chief executive Lydia Monyepao. “This partnership will allow our teams to showcase their talent on a global stage and prepare for upcoming tournaments, with essential support and guidance from the Bundesliga and its clubs.”
The announcement follows several Bundesliga-led projects across Africa over the past year. In 2025, the league collaborated with Canal+ to launch a training program for aspiring sports journalists, and this season it became the first European league to offer a dedicated League Pass streaming service in parts of Africa, including South Africa, Kenya, and Nigeria.
Additionally, Bundesliga club RB Leipzig has announced a post-season tour of South Africa scheduled from May 26–30, as part of the league’s broader regional engagement strategy.
