Police open investigation after shocking death of 2026 World Cup star, 26

FIFA World Cup star Jayden Adams has died at the age of 25, weeks after playing for his country, South Africa, at the global championship.

Jayden played in all three of South Africa’s group games at the tournament, helping the team to make history when they reached the knockout stages of the competition for the first time; the team lost to co-host nation Canada. His first appearance came hours after learning that his grandmother had passed away.

“It is with profound shock and a heavy heart that I have learnt of the passing of Jayden Adams,” South Africa’s minister of sport, arts and culture Gayton McKenzie said, in a statement.

“South African football has lost one of its brightest young talents, and our nation mourns alongside his family, his team-mates and the millions of supporters who watched him grow from a promising academy prospect into a full Bafana Bafana international.”

Local police confirmed that they have opened an investigation after the body of a 25-year-old man was found at a house in Schotschekloof, a suburb in central Cape Town, on Saturday morning local time.

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McKenzie added: “The cause of Jayden’s passing has not yet been confirmed, and I wish to appeal to members of the media and the public to exercise restraint and compassion, and to refrain from speculation, while his family and Mamelodi Sundowns are given the space and privacy they need at this incredibly difficult time.

“Any official information will be communicated by the appropriate parties in due course.”

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The South African Football Players Union said it was “devastated by the untimely passing” of the player, who was also part of the South Africa squad that reached the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations semi-finals.

“Jayden had only recently represented South Africa at the 2026 World Cup, carrying the hopes of the nation with pride, courage and distinction,” they said

“His passing is an immeasurable loss to his family, team-mates, clubs, the football fraternity and the country at large. South African football has lost a gifted player, a proud servant of the game and a young life that still had so much to offer.”

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Jayden played for South Africa’s Premiership club Mamelodi Sundowns, based in Pretoria, where he helped the team win the league and African Champions League titles.

Mamelodi Sundowns are devastated by the tragic passing of Jayden Adams,” the team shared on social media, confirming his death.

“We pray that the Almighty God comforts and strengthens the Adams family, his friends and everyone that knew him,” they continued. “Sundowns respectfully ask that the family’s privacy be honoured as they grieve this profound loss.”