South African football team’s World Cup departure delayed by visa debacle

South Africa’s sports minister, Gayton McKenzie, has demanded accountability from the South African Football Association after visa complications delayed the national football team’s travel to Mexico for the World Cup.

Describing the situation as a gross embarrassment that made the nation look foolish, McKenzie sought explanations for what the national broadcaster termed an administrative bungle. The delays have disrupted preparations for the squad, known as Bafana Bafana, who are scheduled to play a friendly against Jamaica before facing co-hosts Mexico in their tournament opener on 11 June.

Government departments ultimately had to intervene to help secure the necessary documentation, as the team also required clearance to enter the United States for their subsequent match against the Czech Republic in Atlanta. Following these efforts, McKenzie confirmed that all players had received permission to travel and would depart on a chartered flight on Monday.

However, several key staff members, including an assistant coach, the head of security, and the team doctor, had still not secured their visas at the time of the announcement. The travel chaos follows a frustrating final home friendly for the team, which ended in a goalless draw against Nicaragua and extended their winless run to four games.