Meet Luca Human-Mare, the 10-year-old South African boy heading to the 2026 FIFA World Cup as an official match ball carrier.
Image: Instagram
Ten-year-old South African footballer Luca Human-Marè is turning his passion for the game into a remarkable opportunity on the global stage.
“I love football so much,” says the young player, whose dedication is already opening doors many can only dream of.
Human-Marè is set to travel to the 2026 Fifa World Cup, taking place across Canada, Mexico and the United States from June 11 to July 19.
In a major milestone, he has been selected as the only South African child to serve as an official match ball carrier - part of the tournament’s “Kia Kickoff Kids” programme, which includes 104 participants from around the world.
The Johannesburg-based youngster will make his debut on June 18 in Atlanta, when Bafana Bafana face the Czech Republic.
His role will see him carry the official match ball onto the pitch and present it to the referee in front of thousands of fans - a moment that marks a proud achievement for both Luca and South Africa.
As the countdown to the global showpiece begins, Human-Marè says he is excited to represent Mzansi on such a prestigious platform.
Despite only playing football for just under three years, his passion for the sport runs deep.
He currently trains with the Stars of Africa Academy and has big ambitions for his future in the game.
Human-Marè looks up to some of football’s greatest names, including Cristiano Ronaldo, Lionel Messi, and rising star Lamine Yamal.
Inspired by their journeys, he hopes to one day join a top football academy at a young age, much like Messi did.
He is also eager to meet Relebohile Mofokeng, the talented Orlando Pirates midfielder, as he continues to chase his dream of becoming a professional footballer.