Although the opening match of the 2026 World Cup is just around the corner, one of the teams set to take part in the tournament opener will arrive later than expected after visa issues disrupted its travel plans.
The South African Football Association (SAFA) confirmed that the team's flight from Johannesburg to Mexico City, originally scheduled to arrive May 31, was delayed. South African broadcaster SABC reported that at least 20 members of the delegation, including players, coaches and staff, were still awaiting visas from the U.S. Embassy, while several members of the technical staff had their applications denied.
Despite the delay amounting to just one day, the situation drew criticism from South African officials. On social media, Sports, Arts and Culture Minister Gayton McKenzie criticized SAFA, calling the visa problems "embarrassing" and a sign of disregard for the welfare of the players.
"This Safa travel & visa debacle is embarrassing & grossly unfair towards the players & coaching staff," McKenzie wrote, adding that South Africa was "being made to look like fools."
This @SAFA_net travel & visa debacle is embarrassing & grossly unfair towards the players & coaching staff. I have informed @SAFA_net that I need a report and action must be taken against those responsible for this mess. We are being made to look like fools.
— Gayton McKenzie (@GaytonMcK) May 31, 2026
Later on May 31, McKenzie said all players had received visas to travel to the United States. However, one assistant coach, the team doctor, the head of security and an analyst were still awaiting approval.
The 2026 World Cup kicks off June 11 with a match between hosts Mexico and South Africa. Bafana Bafana require authorization to enter the United States because their second group-stage match is against the Czech Republic in Atlanta.
🇿🇦 Bafana Bafana has arrived at the Send-Off Event!
— SABC Sport (@SABC_Sport) May 30, 2026
SAFA President Dr Danny Jordaan joined players and supporters as the nation united behind Bafana Bafana ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup™.
ALL OF US. ALL IN. KA⚽️FELA! 🏆⚽️
📺 Catch the 2026 FIFA World Cup LIVE from 11 June… pic.twitter.com/5ESxuBKGqJ
South Africa coach Hugo Broos previously said he wanted the team in Mexico no later than June 1 to allow players time to recover from jet lag and adjust to the altitude. South Africa's final warmup match before the tournament is scheduled for June 5 against Jamaica.
The June 11 match at Mexico City Stadium, formerly known as Estadio Azteca, will mark Bafana Bafana's first World Cup appearance in 16 years. South Africa also faced Mexico in the opening match of the 2010 World Cup, which it hosted.
