World Cup 2026: Vincent Tseka under fire amid South Africa’s visa crisis

South Africa’s preparations for the FIFA World Cup have been thrown into disarray after a visa crisis forced the postponement of the national team’s scheduled departure to Mexico on Sunday.

The unexpected setback has sparked widespread criticism and renewed scrutiny of the South African Football Association’s administrative processes as players and officials remain stranded at home awaiting travel clearance.

Visa Delays Disrupt Travel Plans

In an official statement, the South African Football Association confirmed that the team encountered visa-related difficulties involving several players and members of the delegation. The issue prevented the squad from boarding a specially arranged flight that was due to depart for Pachuca, Mexico, on Sunday morning.

The delay has raised concerns over the team’s preparations for the tournament, with valuable training and acclimatisation time now at risk.

Team Manager Blamed for Administrative Error

According to reports in South Africa, team manager Vincent Tseka is being held primarily responsible for the situation. The reports claim that visa applications were submitted too late, leaving more than 20 players and officials without the necessary Mexican visas.

The latest controversy has intensified pressure on Tseka, whose administrative record has already come under scrutiny in recent years.

Previous Mistakes Resurface

This is not the first time Tseka has faced criticism over administrative issues within the national team setup. In 2025, he was heavily criticised following an error involving the suspension status of player Teboho Mokoena.

That mistake reportedly resulted in South Africa losing points and receiving a financial sanction from FIFA, further damaging confidence in the federation’s administrative operations.

Government Demands Accountability

The growing controversy has also attracted the attention of government officials. South African Minister of Sport, Arts and Culture, Gaiton MacKenzie, condemned the situation and called for immediate action from the football authorities.

He described the incident as “extremely embarrassing and unfair to the players and coaching staff,” while urging the federation to provide a full report and hold those responsible accountable for the “administrative failure.”

Emergency Meetings Underway

As pressure mounts, the South African Football Association is holding emergency discussions aimed at resolving the visa crisis as quickly as possible.

Meanwhile, the national team continues to train in South Africa while officials work to secure the outstanding visas and finalise travel arrangements ahead of the World Cup.