Uruguay's plane refused entry to USA one day before FIFA World Cup 2026 opener
(Courtesy : Getty)
La Celeste are set to face Saudi Arabia in their World Cup Group H opener tomorrow.
Uruguay are scheduled to kick off their FIFA World Cup 2026 campaign with a feisty clash against Saudi Arabia at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens, Florida. However, the South American side’s preparations have been thrown into disarray after their plane was not allowed to enter the USA due to administrative issues.
Romain Molina reported that certain important documents have gone missing, resulting in the American authorities denying them clearance to travel to Miami. This has resulted in the Uruguayan team being stranded at the Mayakoba Complex, which is about 45 minutes from Cancun International Airport in Mexico. Molina reported that a new flight is supposed to take the team to Miami after a few hours’ delay.
Unconfirmed media reports said that this fiasco will lead to a three-hour delay for the team’s arrival in Miami. This has led to the distinct possibility that head coach Marcelo Bielsa will miss the press conference, which is scheduled at 8:00 PM local time.
However, Diario AS reported that the Uruguayan Football Association (AUF) is working hard to find a solution to ensure that the delegation reaches the venue in time for the press conference.
Also Read: USA-Iran reach peace deal; Respite for Team Melli’s FIFA World Cup 2026 campaign?
Latest controversy to hit World Cup
This is the latest bit of controversy to hit the ongoing World Cup. Iran has faced a barrage of barriers, including being forced to move their base to Tijuana, Mexico. However, the upcoming USA-Iran peace deal has given hope for a thawing of relations between the two nations.
Ghana midfielder Thomas Partey recently joined a long list of players and staff who have been refused entry to the USA and Canada for a variety of reasons.
What was Uruguay’s plane refused entry into the USA?
Reports said the team’s plane was refused entry into the USA due to missing administrative documents, leaving the squad stranded in Mexico.
When is the Saudi Arabia vs Uruguay FIFA World Cup 2026 match?
The Group H match will take place on Sunday, June 14, 2026, at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens, Florida. In India, the match will kick off 3:30 AM IST on June 15.
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Sushruta has spent over two years covering football, with a particular focus on Indian and international competitions. Alongside football, he has reported on a variety of sports, bringing curiosity and perspective to every story. When he’s not following the action, he can usually be found binge-watching movies or getting lost in a good book.