SAFA says only four camp members are still awaiting visas, with efforts underway to secure their travel documents
By Mapaballo Borotho
The South African men’s national football team, Bafana Bafana, is set to depart for Mexico on Monday, 1 June 2026, after visas were secured for the players ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
The team’s departure was delayed due to visa-related issues affecting members of the squad.
On Sunday, 31 May 2026, the South African Football Association held an Emergency Committee Meeting to discuss several matters relating to the senior men’s national team’s delayed travel plans to Mexico.
It was revealed during the meeting that the only outstanding visas were for four members of the camp. SAFA said it is working closely with the relevant authorities to ensure they are also able to board the flight to North America.
To strengthen operational coordination during the tournament, SAFA announced the establishment of a three-member organising committee to oversee the team’s administrative affairs throughout the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
The three-member committee includes the Bafana Bafana Head of Delegation (HOD) David Molwantwa, SAFA Chairperson of the Finance Committee Mxolisi Sibam, together with the Team Manager Vincent Tseka.
The committee will be responsible for ensuring that any logistical or administrative challenges that arise during the tournament are dealt with swiftly and efficiently.
“While the visa delays resulted in the team losing a valuable day in its travel and preparation schedule, SAFA is satisfied that the matter has now been substantially resolved and that the team’s World Cup plans remain firmly on course,” the association said in a statement.
This year’s 2026 FIFA World Cup will be jointly hosted by United States, Canada and Mexico from 11 June to 19 July 2026.
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