South Africa government steps in to resolve visa issues ahead of World Cup 2026

South Africa’s World Cup travel crisis appears to be nearing an end after Sports Minister Gaiton McKenzie announced that the national team is now expected to depart for the tournament on Monday following the resolution of most of the squad’s visa issues.

The development comes after a frustrating delay that disrupted the team’s travel plans and sparked concerns about South Africa’s preparations for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

Visa Problems Force Travel Delay

Bafana Bafana had originally been scheduled to leave on a chartered flight for their training camp in Pachuca, Mexico. However, the departure was postponed as the South African Football Association worked to complete the necessary travel documentation.

Administrative complications surrounding visa processing prevented the team from leaving as planned, prompting criticism and increasing pressure on football officials to resolve the issue quickly.

Sports Minister Provides Update

In a statement posted on X, Sports Minister Gaiton McKenzie revealed that significant progress had been made in resolving the visa situation.

He said: “All Bafana Bafana players (the nickname of the South African national team) have received their visas to travel to the United States. Only the assistant coach, the team doctor, the head of security and one analyst remain. The chartered flight will depart tomorrow (Monday).”

The update offers major relief for the players and coaching staff as they continue preparations for football’s biggest tournament.

Federation Yet to Confirm Departure

Despite the minister’s announcement, the South African Football Association has not officially confirmed the team’s departure plans.

According to Reuters, federation officials are expected to hold an emergency meeting to discuss the matter before making a final announcement regarding the travel arrangements.

Opening Match Against Hosts Awaits

South Africa are scheduled to begin their World Cup campaign against tournament co hosts Mexico in the opening match on June 11 in Mexico City.

Bafana Bafana will then face the Czech Republic on June 18 in Atlanta, United States, before concluding their Group A fixtures against South Korea on June 24 in Monterrey, Mexico.

With the visa issues seemingly close to being resolved, South Africa can now turn their full attention to preparing for a challenging World Cup campaign.