South Africa, SAFA, Gayton McKenzie
31 May 2026
South Africa delayed their World Cup departure because of visa issues affecting players and officials. The team were due to fly out on Sunday before the opening match against Mexico, but remained in Johannesburg for training.
SAFA said it would hold an emergency committee meeting before giving further updates. Sports minister Gayton McKenzie criticised the situation publicly, calling it embarrassing and unfair to the players and coaching staff.