South Africa’s most iconic football moment is set to come alive once more with the premiere of Class of ’96: Rise of a Nation, a premium six-part documentary series produced by Known Associates Entertainment (KAE). The series will debut on e.tv on 25 January 2026, reclaiming the legendary Bafana Bafana story as world-class, African-owned intellectual property.
More than just a football documentary, Class of ’96: Rise of a Nation is a cinematic exploration of ambition, unity and national identity in a post-democracy South Africa. It tells the definitive story of Bafana Bafana’s historic 1996 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) victory, followed by their first-ever qualification for the FIFA World Cup in 1998, a moment that symbolised the country’s confident arrival on the global stage
A Global Story Told Through African Eyes
Produced by Known Associates Entertainment in partnership with A Barking Rat Film, the series blends rare archival footage with intimate interviews and international football insight. Contributors include global football icons such as José Mourinho, legendary commentator Martin Tyler, and respected figures like Howard Wilkinson OBE and Alan Curbishley, alongside South African football legends Benni McCarthy, Doctor Khumalo, Lucas Radebe and Mark Fish
Tshepiso Chikapa-Phiri, Producer and Group CEO of Known Associates Group, describes the series as both a cultural milestone and a global statement.
“This is a true story of grit, unity and a nation coming together to support its national treasure,” he said. “Class of ’96 proves what African studios are capable of when we control our stories at every level — from development and financing to production and distribution. This is not just a documentary; it is a premium African asset built to compete globally”
e.tv Executive Producer Mark Madai echoed the sentiment, describing the series as a vital piece of South African heritage.
“This series reminds us how football united the country, inspired hope and showcased our talent to the world,” he said. “We are proud to be the home of this emotional and powerful celebration of national pride”
KAE CEO and producer Moroba Nkawe emphasised the responsibility behind telling the story.
“This is a cultural memory that lives in the hearts of South Africans. Our task was to honour it with care, depth and integrity, ensuring the legacy of that team is preserved for generations to come”
A Personal Perspective Behind the Camera
The series is directed by John Barker, son of late Bafana Bafana coach Clive Barker, bringing both emotional depth and authenticity to the project.
“This story has lived with me for most of my life,” Barker said. “Directing Class of ’96 was about honouring the people involved and letting the truth of that moment speak for itself. It is a story of belief, passion and pride — and of a team that changed how a nation saw itself”
Narrated by Robert Marawa, the documentary stands as a definitive record of one of South Africa’s most important sporting chapters, told at a standard designed for both local and international audiences.
