South African police have confirmed that an inquest has been launched into the death of Bafana Bafana and Mamelodi Sundowns midfielder Jayden Adams, whose unexpected passing at the age of 25 has sent shockwaves through the football community.
The death of Adams was confirmed by his representatives and guardian, but the exact circumstances surrounding the incident have not been disclosed. The gifted midfielder had only recently returned after representing South Africa at the 2026 FIFA World Cup in North America.
Police open inquest into Adams’ death
According to Briefly, officers from Cape Town Central said Adams’ body was found at a property on Military Road in Schotsche Kloof at around 11 am on Saturday.
Police spokesperson Captain FC van Wyk confirmed that an official inquest docket had been opened as investigators began examining the circumstances surrounding the incident.
“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. Circumstances surrounding this incident are under investigation,”
Van Wyk told local media. Authorities have yet to release additional information regarding the cause of death.
Police spokesperson Captain FC van Wyk confirmed to IOL that an inquest docket had been opened after the body of Bafana Bafana star Jayden Adams was discovered at a property in Cape Town, at about 11 am on Saturday.
Read on https://t.co/arJVlmcIS9#SouthAfrica #BafanaBafana… pic.twitter.com/lNjDUUaYnO— IOL News (@IOL) July 11, 2026
Adams suffers personal tragedy before his passing
According to BBC Sport, Adams’ death occurred only weeks after he experienced another devastating personal loss during South Africa’s World Cup campaign, when his grandmother died while he was away representing his country at the tournament.
The midfielder played for Bafana Bafana throughout the competition and had established himself as one of South Africa’s most promising young football talents before his tragic death.
South Africa midfielder Jayden Adams has passed away, just weeks after making his FIFA World Cup debut. He was 25.
“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… pic.twitter.com/1WdFV8dDLT
— TSN (@TSN_Sports) July 11, 2026
Mamelodi Sundowns pay tribute to Adams
Mamelodi Sundowns have also issued a heartfelt statement following the loss of their midfielder. The club expressed deep sorrow over Adams’ passing while offering condolences to his family, friends, teammates, and supporters.
The club further appealed for privacy on behalf of those closest to the player as they mourn his death.
While the police investigation remains ongoing, tributes have continued to flow from across South Africa and the wider football fraternity, celebrating the life and career of a talented player whose future was widely regarded as exceptionally bright.
