Mamelodi Sundowns have announced a deeply emotional tribute to the late Jayden Adams, confirming that the club will retire the No. 8 jersey for the 2026/27 season in honour of the midfielder’s memory and contribution to the club.
The decision comes less than a month after Adams’ unexpected passing at the age of 25, a tragedy that shocked South African football. Sundowns had previously described his death as a profound loss to the club and expressed condolences to his family, friends, teammates and supporters.
No. 8 Becomes a Symbol of Jayden Adams
For the upcoming season, no Sundowns player will wear the number 8 as the club creates a lasting tribute to the midfielder.
The club said:
“The number 8 will forever carry Jayden Adams’ name, memories, and the place he holds in the Mamelodi Sundowns family.”
The gesture ensures that Adams’ association with the number will remain part of the club’s identity, while giving supporters an enduring reminder of a player whose career was tragically cut short.
A Career That Rose Quickly
Adams began his professional journey at Stellenbosch FC, progressing through the club’s academy before making his senior breakthrough.
His performances eventually earned him a move to Mamelodi Sundowns in 2025, where he quickly became part of a squad competing at the highest level of African club football. He was also selected for Bafana Bafana’s 2026 FIFA World Cup squad, representing South Africa on the biggest international stage.
During the 2026 World Cup, Adams featured in South Africa’s group-stage campaign as Bafana made history by reaching the knockout phase for the first time.
He also played a role in Sundowns’ successful 2025/26 CAF Champions League campaign, adding another significant achievement to a career that was still in its early stages.
Tributes Continue Across South African Football
Adams’ passing prompted an outpouring of grief throughout the country’s football community.
The Premier Soccer League described him as a young player of exceptional promise whose talent, humility and dedication had earned widespread admiration.
South Africa’s government also paid tribute to the midfielder, highlighting the joy he brought to supporters while representing both his club and country.
His funeral was held in Stellenbosch on July 25, with family, friends, football figures and supporters gathering to celebrate his life and say their final farewells.
A Legacy That Goes Beyond Football
At just 25, Adams was still at the beginning of what promised to be a remarkable career. His rapid rise from Stellenbosch’s academy to Sundowns and the Bafana Bafana World Cup squad made him one of South Africa’s emerging football talents.
Now, the No. 8 shirt will serve as a permanent reminder of the player, teammate and person he was to those around him.
For the Yellow Nation, the 2026/27 season will therefore carry an emotional significance. Every time the famous Sundowns shirt takes the field without a No. 8 on the back, it will be a reminder that although Jayden Adams is no longer there physically, his place in the Sundowns family remains.
Rest in peace, Jayden Adams.
