The South African junior team departs on Saturday night at 8.55pm in a series of staggered flights for the World Athletics U20 Championships in Eugene, Oregon, USA to be held from 5–9 August 2026.  

Between 24–30 July, individual athletes began travelling to the USA. The main team groups will depart South Africa in staggered phases as follows:
Group 1: Departed on Friday 31 July, and arrived on Saturday 1 August

Group 2: departs 1 August, Arriving 2 August

Group 3: Departure 2 August, Arrival 3 August

Cape Town–based athletes will travel directly to the host country. 

The USA visa application process went smoothly, and all team members have been granted their visas.

This structured travel plan ensures athletes arrive well ahead of the Championships, allowing them time to acclimatise, recover from long-haul travel, and focus on final preparations.

"Athletics South Africa extends heartfelt gratitude to all parents, coaches, schools, and donors who have supported the athletes with their flights and visas," said JohnMathane, theActingPresidentofAthleticsSouthAfrica. "Thesr contributions have been invaluable in making this journey possible. ASA will be covering the accommodation costs for the team at the Championship."

ENDS

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About Athletics South Africa
Athletics South Africa (ASA) is the national governing body for athletics in South Africa, responsible for Track and Field, Road Running, Cross Country and Race Walking. ASA is affiliated with World Athletics and the Confederation of African Athletics (CAA). Established in 1995, the federation is headquartered in Johannesburg.