South Africa Faces World Cup Visa Setback As Minister Seeks Answers

South Africa’s preparations for the World Cup suffered a setback after visa issues delayed the national team’s departure to Mexico.

Sports Minister Gayton McKenzie expressed frustration over the situation, saying the country was being “made to look like fools” and calling on the South African Football Association (Safa) to explain how the problem occurred. He also insisted that those responsible should be held accountable.

Safa acknowledged that some players and officials experienced visa-related difficulties but did not provide specific details.

Government Steps In to Resolve Crisis

McKenzie later confirmed that all players had received permission to travel and would leave for Mexico on Monday. South African media described the incident as an administrative error that disrupted the team’s World Cup preparations.

The minister had earlier criticized the situation on social media, calling it unfair to both the players and coaching staff.

In response, Safa said it was working urgently to ensure the team travelled to Mexico City as quickly as possible ahead of the tournament.

Additional Visa Challenges Remain

Reports indicated that efforts were made to secure United States visas for members of the squad and staff. The documents are required because South Africa will play their second World Cup group match against the Czech Republic in Atlanta.

The Department of International Relations was also involved in efforts to resolve the issue.

While all players have now been cleared to travel, McKenzie said visas were still pending for several members of the support staff, including an assistant coach, the team doctor, the head of security and an analyst.

Focus Turns to World Cup Campaign

South Africa, one of 10 African nations participating in the expanded 48-team World Cup, will face Jamaica in a friendly match in Mexico on Friday as part of their final preparations.

Bafana Bafana will then begin their World Cup campaign against hosts Mexico on 11 June.

The team enters the tournament on the back of a disappointing run of results. Their final home friendly ended in a goalless draw against Nicaragua, a match in which they missed a penalty. The result extended South Africa’s winless streak to four matches heading into the competition.