South Africa football team delayed for 2026 World Cup

South Africa’s national football team has been forced to delay its departure for the 2026 FIFA World Cup due to unresolved visa issues for some players and officials. The squad was scheduled to fly from Johannesburg to Mexico on Sunday for a pre-tournament training camp but remained grounded as authorities worked to resolve the paperwork problems.

The South African Football Association (SAFA) confirmed the delay in a statement, citing "challenges regarding visas" without specifying how many individuals were affected. According to a report from the state broadcaster, visas for at least 20 members of the traveling party were still being processed at the United States embassy in Johannesburg. SAFA said it was working to get the team to Mexico City as soon as possible and would hold an emergency meeting Sunday evening to address the situation.

South Africa’s Sports Minister, Gayton McKenzie, publicly criticized the association, calling the situation a "travel and visa debacle" that is "embarrassing and grossly unfair towards the players and coaching staff." He stated he had demanded a report from SAFA and vowed that action would be taken against those responsible, adding, "We are...