South Africa’s 2026 FIFA World Cup preparations have received a boost after Bafana Bafana assistant coach Helman Mkhalele and head of security Mdu Mbatha secured their United States visas.
The South African Football Association (SAFA) president Danny Jordaan confirmed to SABC Sport that the pair are now cleared to travel and could depart for Mexico as early as Wednesday evening to link up with the rest of the national team.
Mkhalele and Mbatha were unable to travel with the squad on Monday when Bafana Bafana boarded a chartered flight to Mexico City after their visa applications were initially declined.
Bafana Bafana Visa Challenges Finally Come To An End
The two officials have since received their visas following intervention by the Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO), along with support from the US Embassy.
Their approval effectively closes a chapter of administrative setbacks that have affected the national team’s travel arrangements in recent days.
Bafana Bafana had originally planned to depart for Mexico over the weekend. However, the trip was delayed until Monday after more than half of the travelling delegation, including several players, had not received their visas in time.
Danny Jordaan Thanks US Embassy For Assistance
“I can confirm that Helman and Mbatha have got their Visas, and they will be leaving to join the team. Tomorrow, all of them will be together.
“I would also like to thank the US Embassy for their cooperation and for their support in ensuring that all of our players are together now. I just want to extend my gratitude and my thanks to all the staff at the American Embassy,” adds Jordaan.
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The South African national team is currently camped in Pachuca, around two hours from Mexico City, as preparations for the 2026 FIFA World Cup intensify.
Bafana Bafana will face Jamaica in their final international friendly on 5 June before beginning their Group A campaign against tournament hosts Mexico at the iconic Azteca Stadium on 11 June.
