South Africa Seeks Explanation After World Cup Team Delayed by Visa Issues
The South African Football Association (Safa) acknowledged that the squad encountered “challenges regarding Visas for some players and officials,” although it did not provide further specifics. A state broadcaster described the incident as an “administrative bungle.”
Sports Minister Gayton McKenzie sharply criticised the situation, stating on social media platform X that he had instructed Safa to submit a report and ensure those responsible are held accountable. “I need a report and action must be taken against those responsible for this mess,” he said.
He further expressed frustration over the incident, saying, “We are being made to look like fools,” and added that the delay was “embarrassing & grossly unfair towards the players & coaching staff.”
The national team, known as Bafana Bafana, is scheduled to play a friendly against Jamaica in Mexico on Friday before facing Mexico in the opening World Cup match on 11 June, with the United States and Canada co-hosting the tournament.
Safa issued a brief statement saying it was “working around the clock to ensure that the team travels to Mexico City as soon as possible ahead of the opening match.”
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