Uruguay reach Miami after paperwork delay before Saudi opener

Uruguay arrived in Miami on Sunday, June 14, after an administrative issue delayed the team’s travel from Mexico to the United States less than 24 hours before their World Cup Group H opener against Saudi Arabia.

FIFA said an airline permitting error in Mexico caused the disruption and added that the airline apologised. Uruguay are scheduled to play Saudi Arabia on Monday, June 15, in Miami Gardens at 6 p.m. (22:00 GMT).

The squad had been based in Playa del Carmen, Mexico, and trained on Sunday before travelling to Cancun airport, about 72 km away, officials said. On arrival, the delegation were told they were not authorised to enter the United States, prompting a delay while alternative arrangements were made.

The Uruguay Football Association said a second plane from South Florida was dispatched to collect the squad. Players and staff waited at a resort outside Cancun until the replacement flight arrived, officials said.

FIFA said it remained in close contact with Uruguay during the delay and worked with airport and operational partners to minimise disruption to the team’s schedule, leaving limited time for the players to settle in Florida ahead of kickoff.

Pre-match media schedule adjusted in Miami

The travel issue also affected Uruguay’s mandatory pre-match media duties. Head coach Marcelo Bielsa and captain Jose Maria Gimenez missed their initially scheduled news conference on Sunday because of the delay, officials said.

The session was later rescheduled and both Bielsa and Gimenez attended. Gimenez said the team used the waiting time in Cancun to rest, while Bielsa said the delay did not complicate preparation.

Group H fixtures continue amid logistics concerns

Uruguay are in Group H with Spain, Cape Verde and Saudi Arabia. Spain and Cape Verde are set to meet in Atlanta on Monday.

Uruguay’s late arrival in Miami came as tournament organisers continued to face scrutiny over reported travel and entry complications around the World Cup. Officials pointed to cases including a Somali referee denied entry to the United States and an Iraqi striker who faced prolonged questioning at Chicago’s airport before being allowed to enter.

Uruguay were due to complete final preparations in Miami ahead of Monday’s match, with teams and organisers seeking to avoid further logistical disruptions as the group stage continues.