The Uruguay men’s soccer team encountered significant challenges upon arriving in Miami for their FIFA World Cup opener against Saudi Arabia. The team already faced a major delay during their flight from Mexico to the U.S., attributed to paperwork issues.
A video circulating on social media Monday depicts the team halted outside their bus. As they prepared for their match against Saudi Arabia at Miami Stadium, security officers and sniffer dogs thoroughly inspected their luggage. Some players smiled during this process, while others, such as Manchester United midfielder Manuel Ugarte, appeared serious.
The video’s exact location and timing are unclear. However, several recognizable players, including the blue-haired Ronald Araújo, are visible. They wear the same attire shown on broadcasts shortly before the match began. Newsweek reached out to the Uruguayan Football Association for comments on the incident and the travel delays.
Following these events, the team drew 1-1 against Saudi Arabia. The squad’s troubles began with their journey from Cancún, close to their training base in Playa del Carmen, to Fort Lauderdale. Their departure was delayed due to administrative issues as the FIFA-provided flight reportedly lacked necessary paperwork, leading to further delays with a replacement flight in Mexico.
A team spokesperson informed The Athletic that FIFA bore responsibility for the delay. Conversely, FIFA attributed the setback to an ‘airline permitting issue.’ The organization stated, “Due to an airline permitting error in Mexico, the Uruguay national team’s departure from Cancun to Miami was delayed. The airline has apologized for the inconvenience caused.”
FIFA remained in close contact with the Uruguay national team throughout their delay and worked alongside airport and operational partners to help expedite the process and minimize disruption to the team’s travel arrangements.
This story is still unfolding, and further updates are anticipated.
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