FIFA World Cup 2026 | Bafana’s rise sparks SA happiness index

Bafana Bafana's historic qualification for the FIFA World Cup Round of 32 has done more than keep South Africa's football dreams alive—it has also lifted the nation's mood.

New research from the University of Johannesburg's Centre for Well-being, AI and Social Impact shows that after South Africa's victory over South Korea, the country's Gross National Happiness Index surged to one of its highest levels outside the festive season.

The findings highlight the power of sport to unite South Africans, strengthen social cohesion and even boost hope, productivity and well-being.

But can success on the football field have a lasting impact beyond the final whistle? We unpack the research and what it tells us about the role of sport in nation-building with Prof Talita Greyling, the Director of the Centre for Well-being, AI and Social Impact (C.WAIS) at the University of Johannesburg.

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