Bafana Bafana of South Africa today failed to depart for the 2026 World Cup as planned after some players and officials were yet to receive their visas just days to their opening match against co-hosts Mexico.
They were due to fly out to the Mexican city of Pachuca, which is their base camp, on a chartered flight.
Sports minister Gayton Mckenzie fumed: “This SAFA travel and visa debacle is embarrassing and grossly unfair towards the players and the coaching staff.
“I have informed SAFA that I need a report and action must be taken against those responsible for this mess. We are being made to look like fools.”
SAFA plan an emergency meeting later tonight.
