GROUNDED: Bafana Bafana's departure to the Fifa World Cup has been delayed due to visa issues.
Image: BackpagePix
The South African Football Association (Safa) has apologised to the nation for Bafana Bafana’s travel delays heading to the Fifa World Cup in the US, Mexico and Canada.
Safa held an Emergency Committee Meeting on Sunday evening after the national team’s departure was delayed due to outstanding visas.
The meeting revealed that there are still outstanding visas for four members of the camp, however SAFA is working closely with the relevant authorities to ensure that they also board the flight to North America.
Safa also revealed that a three-member organising committee has been established to manage the team’s administrative affairs during the 2026 Fifa World Cup comprising of: Bafana Bafana Head of Delegation (HOD) David Molwantwa, Safa Chairperson of the Finance Committee Mxolisi Sibam together with the Team Manager Vincent Tseka.
The three will work together in ensuring that any logistical or administrative matters that may arise during the global tournament are dealt with expeditiously.
The team were set to travel to Pachuca, Mexico, to set up their 2026 Fifa World Cup training camp. The team was supposed to board a charter flight to Mexico City before making their way to the base.
Minister of Sports, Arts and Culture Gayton McKenzie has slammed Safa for Bafana’s delayed departure.
“This @SAFA_net travel & visa debacle is embarrassing & grossly unfair towards the players & coaching staff,” McKenzie posted on X.
“I have informed @SAFA_net that I need a report and action must be taken against those responsible for this mess. We are being made to look like fools.”
Bafana played their last friendly on home soil last Friday against Nicaragua at the Orlando Stadium in Johannesburg, where they played to a goalless draw.