THE FUSE

After just three years in the game, Luca’s passion for football has earned him a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to step onto the world stage as an official Match Ball Carrier at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

Johannesburg, South Africa (26 February 2026) – Bafana Bafana won’t be the only ones representing South Africa at the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Young football enthusiast Luca Human-Mare will also be flying the South African flag high after being selected as an official Match Ball Carrier, following his win in the Kia Kick Off Kid competition.

The youngster, who has been playing football for just under three years, described the moment he found out he had won as surreal.

“So happy, I couldn’t believe it.”

It was his mom, Liani, who first showed him the competition link.

“My mama showed me the link and I was like, okay, I’m gonna try my best to win this. It’s a one in a lifetime opportunity. And now I won.”

Now 10-years-old, Luca has only been playing football for nearly three years, but his passion for the game runs deep. He looks up to global superstars like Cristiano Ronaldo, Lionel Messi and one of football’s brightest young talents, Lamine Yamal. Luca adds that he dreams of joining a top academy at a young age, like Messi did.

“I really want to be a professional soccer player.”

Luca will walk out as match ball carrier on 18 June in Atlanta, at a game featuring South Africa’s national team, Bafana Bafana. Being the only South African selected makes the moment even more special.

Together with his twin sister, he also shares authentic and energetic football content on social media, where the pair have built an impressive following. From training sessions to fun challenges, their love for their respective passions shines through.

And for anyone who thinks opportunities like this are out of reach, Luca believes:

“It’s 50-50 for everybody. It could have been me, it could have been somebody else… I think just keep pushing, do your best, do what you love and you will succeed.”

With his enthusiasm and big dreams, this match ball moment may just be the beginning for Luca.

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