Uruguay's national football team encountered significant travel disruptions after their chartered aircraft was denied authorization to enter the United States just hours before their 2026 World Cup group stage match against Saudi Arabia. The team was scheduled to depart from Cancun, Mexico, where they had been preparing for the tournament, but faced an unexpected logistical hurdle.
Travel Disruption Details
The Uruguayan Football Association (AUF) released an official statement confirming the delay, attributing the issue to factors beyond their control. The statement noted that the squad remained at their hotel in Cancun while FIFA arranged a new departure time of 4:15 PM local time. A replacement aircraft was eventually secured, allowing the team to travel to Miami, Florida, where they arrived just in time for a delayed press conference.
Manager Marcelo Bielsa and defender Jose Maria Gimenez were scheduled to address the media on Sunday, but the press event was postponed due to the travel chaos. The AUF expressed concerns that FIFA could impose sanctions if the media obligations were not met.
Bielsa's Previous Criticism
This is not the first time Bielsa has been involved in a logistical dispute. During the 2024 CONMEBOL Copa America, held in the United States, Bielsa publicly criticized the organization, claiming that the quality of training pitches and facilities did not meet promised standards. He accused tournament organizers of lying about the conditions and referenced the FIFAGate scandal, suggesting that the US had previously intervened in football governance when it suited their interests.
Other Travel Issues at the World Cup
Uruguay's travel problems are part of a broader pattern of logistical complications affecting teams and officials at the 2026 World Cup. Omar Artan, a member of Iran's support staff, was denied entry into the United States despite being an approved personnel member. Iran also alleged that their fan ticket allocation was revoked, although the team itself managed to enter the country following a peace deal announced by former President Donald Trump.
Iran had been training in Tijuana, Mexico, to acclimate to the climate conditions of their intended base in Arizona. Iranian striker Mehdi Taremi criticized the United States as a host nation, telling ESPN that the atmosphere lacked the friendliness and global spirit he had experienced at previous World Cups. He expressed disappointment with the tension created by visa denials and other actions.
Uruguay eventually arrived in Miami and held their delayed press conference, avoiding any potential sanctions from FIFA. The team is set to face Saudi Arabia in their opening Group H match at 11 PM on Monday.
