South Africa's World Cup Departure Delayed Due to Visa Issues

The South African national football team has encountered visa complications that have postponed their departure for the World Cup in Mexico, according to a statement from the South African Football Association (SAFA) on Sunday. The organization confirmed that “the South African senior men's national team has experienced challenges regarding visas for some players and officials,” which prevented the team from traveling to North America as initially scheduled.

Known as Bafana Bafana, the team was set to commence their tournament preparations in Mexico. South African Sports Minister Gayton McKenzie announced that the squad is now anticipated to depart via charter flight on Monday. He noted on X that “all @BafanaBafana players received their visas to travel to the USA,” while mentioning that the assistant coach, team doctor, head of security, and one analyst were still awaiting their approvals.

SAFA had previously indicated that they were doing everything possible to expedite the team’s journey to Mexico City. South Africa is slated to play against co-host Mexico in the World Cup's opening match on June 11, along with additional matches in Group A against the Czech Republic and South Korea.