South Africa’s preparations for the 2026 FIFA World Cup suffered an unexpected setback after visa problems delayed the national team’s departure to North America, forcing Bafana Bafana to postpone their journey by a day.
The South African Football Association (SAFA) confirmed that coach Hugo Broos and his squad were originally scheduled to travel to Mexico on Sunday but were unable to leave because several players and members of the delegation had not received the necessary travel documentation.
The issue sparked criticism at home and prompted intervention from government officials before the matter was largely resolved on Monday, allowing the team to continue its journey ahead of the tournament.
For South Africa, one of Africa’s representatives at the expanded 48-team World Cup, the delay came at a crucial moment in preparations for their opening match against hosts Mexico on 11 June.
In a statement released on Sunday, SAFA explained the reason behind the disruption.
“The team encountered visa issues for some players and staff members, which prevented the planned departure this morning for North America,” the federation said.
The administrative setback immediately raised concerns about the team’s readiness, with the World Cup only days away.
However, following emergency efforts involving football and government authorities, most of the outstanding issues were addressed.
SAFA confirmed on Monday that the squad had finally been able to travel.
“Visits are still required for four team members. SAFA is working closely with the relevant authorities to enable them to travel to North America,” a statement released Monday indicated.
The federation acknowledged that the situation had disrupted the team’s carefully planned schedule but insisted preparations remained on track.
“Although the visa delays resulted in the loss of a valuable day for the team in its travel and preparation schedule, SAFA is pleased that the situation is now largely resolved and that the team’s preparations for the World Cup are proceeding smoothly. SAFA apologizes to the public for these unforeseen delays.”
The incident quickly became a national talking point in South Africa, with Sports Minister Gayton McKenzie expressing frustration at what he viewed as an avoidable administrative failure.
“This fiasco is shameful and deeply unfair to the players and staff. I have informed SAFA that I want a report and sanctions against those responsible for this disaster. We are making fools of ourselves,” he wrote on X.
The episode has highlighted the importance of logistical planning for African teams competing at major international tournaments, where travel arrangements, visas and administrative coordination often play a critical role alongside performances on the pitch.
In response to the difficulties, SAFA announced the creation of a dedicated three-member committee to oversee administrative operations during the World Cup.
According to the federation, the committee consists of Bafana Bafana Head of Delegation David Molwantwa, SAFA Finance Committee Chairperson Mxolisi Sibam and Team Manager Vincent Tseka.
“The three will work together in ensuring that any logistical or administrative matters that may arise during the global tournament are dealt with expeditiously.”
SAFA also thanked South Africa’s Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO) and the United States Consulate in Johannesburg for helping resolve the visa situation.
The federation noted that officials from the consulate had worked throughout the weekend to facilitate the issuance of visas required for travel.
Despite the disruption, South Africa remains focused on its World Cup campaign. Bafana Bafana have been drawn in Group A alongside hosts Mexico, the Czech Republic and South Korea.
The tournament, which runs from 11 June to 19 July, will be jointly hosted by the United States, Canada and Mexico, marking the first World Cup to be staged across three countries.
