Bafana Bafana’s FIFA World Cup 2026 travel plans are back on track after all members of the playing squad received their visas following a delay that threatened to disrupt preparations for the global tournament.
The South African national team had been due to depart for Mexico on Sunday, but the trip was postponed after visa issues prevented the squad from travelling as scheduled.
Minister of Sport, Arts and Culture Gayton McKenzie confirmed on Sunday that the problem affecting the players had been resolved and that the team would now leave on Monday.
Players cleared to travel
McKenzie announced via social media that all Bafana Bafana players had received the necessary visas to enter the United States, where part of the 2026 FIFA World Cup will be hosted.
“All Bafana Bafana players received their visas to travel to the USA,” McKenzie said.
However, he revealed that four members of the backroom staff were still awaiting their travel documentation.
The outstanding visas include those of an assistant coach, the team doctor, the head of security and an analyst.
Despite the delay affecting some officials, the minister confirmed that the team’s charter flight would depart on Monday.
Final preparations underway
The resolution comes as a major relief for coach Hugo Broos and his squad as they enter the final stretch of preparations for the World Cup.
South Africa recently completed their final match on home soil before the tournament and will now shift their focus to acclimatising and fine-tuning preparations in North America.
Bafana Bafana are scheduled to face Jamaica in a final warm-up match on 5 June before beginning their World Cup campaign.
Opening clash against Mexico
South Africa’s first match at the 2026 FIFA World Cup will be against co-hosts Mexico on 11 June.
The encounter is expected to provide an early test of Bafana Bafana’s credentials as they seek to make an impact on football’s biggest stage.
With the visa issues now largely resolved, Broos and his players can focus fully on their World Cup mission as they prepare to leave South Africa for the tournament.
