Bafana Bafana are expected to depart for Mexico on Monday after visa issues that disrupted the team’s travel plans were belatedly resolved over the weekend.
The South African Football Association (SAFA) confirmed on Sunday night that all players had received their visas, clearing the way for the national team to begin its journey to FIFA World Cup 2026.
Emergency meeting
The announcement followed an emergency SAFA Executive Committee meeting convened to address the delayed travel arrangements.
While player visas have now been secured, SAFA revealed that four members of the travelling delegation are still awaiting their documentation.
The outstanding visas are those of an assistant coach, the team doctor, the head of security and an analyst.
The association said it is working closely with the relevant authorities to ensure they can also travel to North America as soon as possible.
Organising committee established
To strengthen operational coordination during the tournament, SAFA has established a three-member organising committee to oversee the team’s administrative and logistical affairs throughout the World Cup.
The committee consists of Bafana Bafana head of delegation David Molwantwa, SAFA Finance Committee chairperson Mxolisi Sibam and team manager Vincent Tseka.
According to SAFA, the trio will be responsible for ensuring that any logistical or administrative challenges that arise during the tournament are dealt with swiftly and efficiently.
Although the visa delays cost the team a valuable day in its travel and preparation schedule, SAFA insisted that Bafana Bafana’s World Cup plans remain firmly on track.
Apologised to South Africans
The association also apologised to South Africans for the disruption and thanked the Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO) and the United States Consulate in Johannesburg for their assistance in securing the players’ visas.
“The matter has now been substantially resolved and the team’s World Cup plans remain firmly on course,” SAFA said in a statement.
The delayed departure comes just days before Hugo Broos’ side’s final preparations for the global showpiece, which will be hosted by the United States, Canada and Mexico from 11 June to 19 July.
South Africa will now turn its full attention to its final warm-up commitments before beginning its World Cup campaign on North American soil.
Bafana Bafana’s Group A FIFA World Cup 2026 fixtures
- Thursday, 11 June: Mexico vs South Africa, Estadio Azteca, Mexico City – 21:00 (SA time)
- Thursday, 18 June: Czech Republic vs South Africa, Mercedes-Benz Stadium, Atlanta – 18:00 (SA time)
- Thursday, 25 June: South Africa vs South Korea, Estadio BBVA, Guadalupe – 03:00 (SA time)
