Mzansi to 2026: South Africa’s World Cup send-off plan mixes culture, nostalgia — and a budget fight

South Africa’s sports and culture department has unveiled a World Cup 2026 initiative that would send a small delegation of fans, artists and 2010 Bafana Bafana legends to North America. The concept is being sold as nation-branding and supporter activation, but it has quickly triggered questions about priorities, transparency and value for money.