Raw talent, big dreams and the relentless spirit of South African football. The 2025 VW Vaya Cup was undoubtedly a weekend of unforgettable moments, game-winning goals, and young stars writing the first chapters of their soccer stories.
The event held at Camp Discovery, Dinokeng, from 6 to 8 June, was abuzz with 22 eager youth teams, all salivating for a shot at stardom. But when all the last whistles were put to rest, it was the boys' and girls' teams from Bidvest McCarthy VW Menlyn going home with the spoils, clinching the title of 2025 Volkswagen Vaya Cup champions through a phenomenal double triumph.
And their prize? Not just some medals and a trophy, but a golden ticket to an exclusive international training camp in 2026 as well—an incredible opportunity that is going to catapult their game (and aspirations) to the next level.
Beside the team successes, two individual players were standout guys: Bontle Khanye of Bidvest McCarthy VW Umhlanga and Sibusiso Maruma of Bidvest McCarthy VW Menlyn were Players of the Tournament, showcasing abilities way beyond their years and passion-filled hearts that show the future is here.
Adding flavour to the weekend were South Africa's football legends—and VW Vaya Cup ambassadors—Lucas Radebe and Desiree Ellis. From pep talks to pitch-side cheers, they made themselves present at this tournament and acted as a 'spark of magic' when it came to the players and the fans.
Martina Biene, Chairperson and Managing Director of Volkswagen Group Africa, expressed her joy with the event, stating that the VW Vaya Cup was about giving young players a platform and a chance to dream big and grow on and off the field.
Since its introduction in 2022, the VW Vaya Cup has been so much more than a competition. It's Volkswagen's 'Drive People Forward' initiative, using sport, opportunity, and community to empower the youth of South Africa. For many of these players, it’s a chance to belong, to believe, and to be truly seen for all their talents.
With the 2025 winners declared and the vuvuzela still echoing in the atmosphere, one thing is definite—this tournament didn't only make winners. It inspired the next generation of footballers.
