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South Africa—Latest Country to Face Visa Issues Ahead of 2026 World Cup
- South Africa faced significant visa delays for players and officials ahead of the 2026 World Cup, prompting travel disruptions.
- Most players secured visas in time, allowing a later-than-planned departure to the United States for World Cup duties.
- A small group of staff, including an assistant coach and medical officials, remained without visas at the time of update.
- South Africa is set to participate in the 2026 World Cup with a group-stage schedule including Mexico, Czechia, and South Korea.
- Other nations also faced entry-related challenges, highlighting broader visa and travel hurdles at the expanded World Cup.
- Officials noted separate visa issues for other groups, including sanctions or health-related isolation implications.
- Canada’s border agency warned fans there is no FIFA visa, and a World Cup ticket does not grant entry.
- South Africa’s travel and visa situation drew criticism from government and SAFA as the team prepared for its first World Cup since hosting in 2010.
- South Africa's 2026 World Cup involvement will begin with the opening match against Mexico in Mexico City.
- The visa issue timeline progressed to resolution within hours, easing travel for most players.
- South Africa's 2010 World Cup hosts context increased scrutiny of travel logistics ahead of the 2026 event.
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