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Parliament, Monday, 13 July 2026 – The Portfolio Committee on Sport, Arts and Culture has learned with deep sadness of the passing of two promising young athletes over the weekend.
The committee extends its heartfelt condolences to the families of soccer player Jayden Adams and rugby player Luqobo Makwedini, who have reportedly passed away.
Jayden was part of South Africa’s World Cup squad competing in the United States, Mexico and Canada. He made appearances for the team and has been honoured at various matches since his passing.
Several members of the committee were present at the announcement of the Bafana Bafana team, where Jayden was named amongst the players. His loss feels like the loss of a part of our future. Yet, we remain committed to celebrating these young lives and take comfort in knowing that future generations will be inspired by the paths they so admirably chose.
Committee Chairperson, Mr Joe McGluwa, said the unexpected passing of both athletes is a devastating blow to their respective sporting codes.
“We are deeply saddened by the loss of these national heroes. Despite their young age, they had already demonstrated the profound impact they were destined to make in South Africa – a country where sport is more than just a game, it is a unifying and empowering force. We can only lower our flags to half-mast in honour of these young legends,” said Mr. McGluwa.
ISSUED BY PARLIAMENTARY COMMUNICATION SERVICES ON BEHALF OF THE CHAIRPERSON OF THE PORTFOLIO COMMITTEE ON SPORT, ARTS AND CULTURE, MR JOE MCGLUWA.
For media enquiries, please contact committee Media Officer:
Mr Sibongile Maputi
Parliamentary Communication Services
Cell: 081 052 6060
Email: smaputi@parliament.gov.za
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