Bafana Bafana is finally set to depart for the United States after visa complications caused a delay in their journey for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.The South African national football team was originally scheduled to leave OR Tambo International Airport on a chartered flight to Mexico early on Sunday, but the departure was postponed when several players had not yet received their visas due to an alleged administrative mix-up.

All players have now been granted visas, although a few officials—including the assistant coach, team doctor, head of security, and one analyst—are still pending.

Minister of Sports, Arts and Culture Gayton McKenzie expressed his frustration on social media, calling the situation embarrassing and unfair, and has requested a full report from SAFA with action against those responsible.The team will travel to Mexico City ahead of their opening match against hosts Mexico at the Estadio Azteca on 11 June.

The 2026 FIFA World Cup will be jointly hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico from 11 June to 19 July, marking an important milestone for South African football on the global stage.