South Africa Delays World Cup Trip to Mexico Over Visa Problems

South Africa's national football team, known as Bafana Bafana, has been forced to postpone its journey to Mexico for the 2026 World Cup preparations because of unexpected visa complications. The team was slated to fly from Johannesburg on Sunday but encountered significant hurdles in securing the necessary travel documents for several players and key personnel. The South African Football Association (SAFA) confirmed the delay, citing visa issues for some players and officials. South Africa's Minister of Sport, Gayton McKenzie, expressed strong dissatisfaction with the situation, demanding accountability for the "chaos" and promising action against those responsible. While the minister stated that all players have received their visas, the assistant coach, team doctor, head of security, and another staff member are still awaiting their documents. The team is scheduled to begin their World Cup campaign, marking their return to the tournament after a 16-year absence, on June 11 against co-hosts Mexico at the Estadio Azteca. They are drawn in Group A alongside Mexico, the Czech Republic, and South Korea. Their training base will be at the CF Pachuca Football University, northwest of Mexico City.