Today, June 28, 2025, the South African sports community gathers to bid farewell to Phumlani Msibi, a pioneering voice whose presence on SuperSport defined an era in sports broadcasting. Msibi, who passed away at the age of 57 after a brief illness, leaves behind a legacy built on passion, versatility, and a deep connection with audiences across the continent.
Phumlani Msibi was more than just a commentator; he was a storyteller who brought football, boxing, and horse racing to life with his insightful analysis and charismatic delivery. His signature phrase, “Coach, thoughts please?” became a staple in post-match interviews, capturing the raw emotion of the beautiful game and endearing him to fans and professionals alike.
Colleagues, athletes, and fans have shared heartfelt tributes, remembering Msibi for his warmth, professionalism, and unwavering dedication to his craft. As the nation mourns, his funeral service is being broadcast live, allowing viewers everywhere to pay their respects to a man whose voice became synonymous with South African sport.
Below is a timeline of Phumlani Msibi’s remarkable career:
Timeline of Phumlani Msibi’s Career
-
Late 1980s – Early 1990s: Began his broadcasting journey at the South African Broadcasting Corporation (SABC), where he learned the fundamentals of live television and developed his on-air presence.
-
Late 1990s: Joined SuperSport as a ring announcer, working alongside legendary boxing promoter Mzi Mnguni. Msibi became SuperSport’s first bilingual boxing commentator, providing coverage in both isiZulu and English, and breaking new ground in sports media inclusivity.
-
2000s: Expanded his repertoire by covering a range of sports, including boxing, football, and horse racing, quickly earning a reputation for his versatility and engaging style.
-
2007: With SuperSport’s acquisition of the Premier Soccer League (PSL) broadcast rights, Msibi transitioned into football commentary, becoming one of the network’s leading voices. His post-match interviews and tactical analysis set a new standard for sports journalism.
-
2007 – 2025: Anchored popular magazine shows such as Super Saturday, Soccer Africa, and Mzansi Legends, where he interviewed prominent football figures and shared stories that resonated with fans across the continent. He became known as “Mr Versatile” for his ability to connect with diverse audiences in multiple languages.
-
June 20, 2025: Phumlani Msibi passed away at the age of 57, leaving behind a remarkable legacy as one of South Africa’s most respected and beloved sports broadcasters.
