Jayden Adams Dies Aged 25 As Police Open Inquest Into Bafana Bafana Star’s Death

Jayden Adams, the talented Mamelodi Sundowns and Bafana Bafana midfielder, has died at the age of 25. The news has sent shockwaves through South African football, with tributes pouring in from across the country. Authorities have since opened an inquest into the circumstances surrounding his death.

Adams recently represented South Africa at the FIFA Club World Cup, where he featured in all three of the team’s group-stage fixtures. He started Bafana Bafana’s opening 2-0 defeat to Mexico before also featuring from the start in the 1-1 draw against Czechia. The midfielder later made a substitute appearance in the 1-0 victory over South Korea but did not play in the team’s 1-0 last-32 loss to Canada.

Jayden Adams Death Under Investigation After Body Found In Cape Town

Police have confirmed that an investigation is underway following the discovery of Jayden Adams’ body in Cape Town. The footballer’s body was found at a property on Military Road in Schotsche Kloof at around 11am on Saturday.

Police spokesperson Captain FC van Wyk confirmed the matter to SurgeZirc SA.

“Cape Town Central police station registered an inquest for investigation following the discovery of the body of a 25-year-old male at a premises in Military Road, Scotscheskloof,” Van Wyk said.

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“Circumstances surrounding this incident are under investigation.”

According to information obtained by SurgeZirc SA, Adams died by suicide. Police have opened an inquest while investigations continue.

At the time of publication, Mamelodi Sundowns had not released an official statement. The club is understood to have requested privacy for the Adams family as they mourn their devastating loss.

Jayden Adams Remembered By Gayton McKenzie And Football Community

Tributes have continued to pour in following confirmation of Jayden Adams’ death. Messages of support have come from government leaders, football organisations and supporters across South Africa.

Minister of Sport, Arts and Culture Gayton McKenzie expressed his grief in a statement following the midfielder’s passing.

“It is with profound shock and a heavy heart that I have learnt of the passing of Jayden Adams, midfielder for Mamelodi Sundowns and Bafana Bafana, at the age of 25.

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

McKenzie also shared a video on X showing himself embracing Adams.

“Rest in peace my precious boy,” McKenzie wrote.

Rest in perfect Peace my Boy 🥲🥲🥲🥲🥲🥲🥲🥲🥲 pic.twitter.com/UwA0pxGkL7

— Gayton McKenzie (@GaytonMcK) July 11, 2026

Jayden Adams Tributes Continue Across South African Football

Jayden Adams’ death has prompted an outpouring of condolences from across the country’s football fraternity. His impact on the game has been recognised by organisations and supporters alike.

Fight Against Crime SA also extended its sympathies to the Adams family, his teammates, Mamelodi Sundowns, Bafana Bafana, SAFA and the broader football community.

The organisation said South Africa had lost a gifted young footballer whose talent inspired many aspiring athletes.