South Africa hit by 2026 World Cup travel delay over visa issues

South Africa's preparations for the 2026 FIFA World Cup suffered a setback after visa issues delayed the team's departure to Mexico, prompting criticism from Sports Minister Gayton McKenzie.

The Bafana Bafana squad had been scheduled to travel ahead of the tournament, but encountered administrative problems relating to travel documentation for players and officials.

McKenzie expressed frustration over the situation, saying South Africa was being made to "look like fools" and called for accountability.

"This Safa travel and visa debacle is embarrassing and grossly unfair towards the players and coaching staff," the minister wrote on social media.

He also demanded an explanation from the South African Football Association (Safa), adding that action should be taken against those responsible for the disruption.

Safa acknowledged the problem in a brief statement, confirming that the national team had experienced challenges with visas for some players and officials. The federation said it was working to ensure the squad travelled to Mexico City as quickly as possible.

According to reports, efforts were made to secure United States visas on Sunday because South Africa's World Cup schedule includes a match in Atlanta against the Czech Republic.

The country's Department of International Relations also became involved in efforts to resolve the issue.

Later on Sunday, McKenzie confirmed that all players had received permission to travel and that a chartered flight carrying the squad would depart on Monday.

However, he said visas were still outstanding for the assistant coach, team doctor, head of security and one analyst.

South Africa will face Jamaica in a friendly match in Mexico on Friday before opening their World Cup campaign against hosts Mexico on June 11.

The tournament marks South Africa's return to the World Cup for the first time since hosting the competition in 2010.