In celebration of South African football icon Doctor Khumalo’s 58th birthday, PUMA South Africa is paying tribute to the legend by bringing back his iconic “16V” football boots.
A Look Back at a Legend
The 16V boots, which Khumalo famously wore during a remarkable career filled with league titles, domestic trophies, and the historic 1996 Africa Cup of Nations victory, are being re-released to honour his lasting impact on the game.
The nickname “16V” comes from fans who compared his dynamic and explosive playing style to the Golf GTI 16V — a car launched in South Africa the same year Khumalo made his professional debut in 1987.
A key figure in South Africa’s football revival post-isolation, Khumalo earned 50 Bafana Bafana caps. He famously scored the decisive penalty in the country’s first FIFA-recognised match against Cameroon in 1992.
One of his most memorable performances came during the 1996 Mandela Cup against Brazil. In that game, Khumalo assisted a goal, scored a stunning volley, and dazzled against the world champions with his trademark flair and control.
A Timeless Tribute
PUMA’s revival of the 16V boot is a nod to a player who left an unforgettable mark on South African football.
“These boots carry special memories for me,” Khumalo said. “It’s an honour to see them return to the market through this collaboration with PUMA.”
“PUMA’s connection with Doc spans nearly 40 years,” added Brett Bellinger, PUMA South Africa’s Marketing Director. “It’s only fitting we celebrate his legacy in this way.”
