Johannesburg (AFP) – World Cup-bound South Africa departed for Mexico on Monday, a day later than planned after visa delays that were heavily criticised at home, including by the government.
Issued on: 01/06/2026 - 15:55
The squad were scheduled to leave on Sunday but were held back at the last minute after it was discovered that four members of the set-up did not have visas, the South African Football Association (SAFA) said.
The team flew out on a chartered flight, an airport official said. They were headed to a training camp ahead of their June 11 match against Mexico in the opening game of the tournament.
"While 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.
