Particle.news
Download on the App Store

South Africa Grounded by Visa Problems Ahead of World Cup

A last‑minute visa hold-up that threatens the team's final training schedule exposes weaknesses in SAFA's operations.

Overview

  • SAFA said the national squad could not board a planned charter to Mexico on Sunday because several players and officials had not received visas and the departure was postponed.
  • State broadcaster SABC reported that visas for roughly 20 delegation members were still being processed at the United States embassy in Johannesburg.
  • Sports Minister Gayton McKenzie publicly demanded a written report and said action must be taken against those responsible, calling the situation embarrassing for players and staff.
  • The delay puts a 10‑day altitude camp in Pachuca and a warm‑up friendly on June 5 at risk and shortens the lead time before South Africa's June 11 opening match at the Azteca.
  • The incident renews scrutiny of SAFA after a past administrative error that cost South Africa a qualifying result and has prompted fan criticism of team manager Vincent Tseka as SAFA held an emergency meeting.