Uruguay's national football team encountered significant travel disruption ahead of their 2026 FIFA World Cup opener against Saudi Arabia, after their chartered aircraft was denied permission to enter United States airspace. The South American side, based in Cancun, Mexico, for pre-match preparations, were scheduled to fly to Miami, Florida, for the Group H clash on Monday at 11pm BST.
Travel Fiasco Blamed on FIFA
Head coach Marcelo Bielsa and defender Jose Maria Gimenez were due to face the press on Sunday, but the team found themselves embroiled in a logistical nightmare. The Uruguayan Football Association (AUF) issued a statement blaming FIFA for the delays, though FIFA later countered that the airline was responsible due to a permitting error in Mexico. A replacement plane was eventually arranged, and the team landed safely.
Bielsa's Previous Criticism of US Logistics
This is not the first time Bielsa has faced logistical issues in the United States. He previously criticized the organization of the 2024 CONMEBOL Copa América, claiming that the planning and facilities fell short of promises. He referenced FIFAGate, stating, "The United States, I'll remind you, when they felt their interests were being attacked, they created FIFAGate. With the FBI."
Wider Travel Issues Affecting Other Teams
The incident is part of a broader pattern of travel complications affecting several nations. Iran's squad faced visa issues, with striker Mehdi Taremi expressing frustration: "I've been to three World Cups, and they always say once you get off the plane and you enter the host country, there's just a unique atmosphere of friendliness and global-ness. Unfortunately, I'm not feeling it right now."
Uruguay's travel chaos adds to the tension surrounding the World Cup, with FIFA and airlines facing scrutiny over their handling of team logistics.
