The South African Football Association (SAFA) has come under heavy criticism after visa complications prevented Bafana Bafana from departing for the FIFA World Cup 2026 as scheduled.
South Africa’s senior men’s national team was due to leave OR Tambo International Airport on a charter flight to Mexico on Sunday morning ahead of the global showpiece. However, the trip was abruptly postponed after visa issues affecting several players and officials left the squad grounded.
The setback has raised serious questions about SAFA’s planning and preparedness, with the national team now racing against time to reach Mexico before their opening match against hosts Mexico on 11 June at the iconic Estadio Azteca in Mexico City.
In a statement, SAFA confirmed that challenges relating to travel documentation had prevented the delegation from travelling to North America as planned.
The association said it was working urgently to resolve the matter and ensure the team reaches Mexico City as soon as possible.
“SAFA is working around the clock to ensure that the team travels to Mexico City ahead of the opening match of the global tournament against hosts Mexico at the Estadio Azteca on 11 June 2026,” the association said.
Officials added that Bafana Bafana would continue training in Johannesburg while efforts are made to secure the necessary visas and finalise travel arrangements.
The matter prompted an emergency committee meeting on Saturday night, with another meeting scheduled for Sunday as pressure mounted on the football governing body to provide answers.
Among those expressing frustration was Minister of Sport, Arts and Culture Gayton McKenzie, who described the situation as both embarrassing and unfair to the players and technical staff.
“This South African Football Association travel and visa debacle is embarrassing and grossly unfair towards the players and coaching staff,” McKenzie said.
“I have informed SAFA that I need a report, and action must be taken against those responsible for this mess. We are being made to look like fools.”
With the World Cup fast approaching, the Department of International Relations and Cooperation (Dirco) has stepped in to assist with resolving the visa issues and helping the national team get its campaign back on track.
The incident has sparked widespread criticism of SAFA, with many questioning how such an administrative oversight could occur on the eve of the country’s long-awaited return to football’s biggest stage.