FIFA blames airline as Uruguay stranded in Mexico before World Cup opener against Saudi Arabia

FIFA has blamed an airline permitting error after Uruguay were stranded in Cancun on the eve of their World Cup 2026 opener against Saudi Arabia, with the Uruguayan Football Association (AUF) having initially directed its anger at the governing body.

Marcelo Bielsa’s squad, based at the Mayakoba Complex resort roughly 45 minutes from Cancun International Airport, were left waiting after their chartered aircraft was found to lack the necessary clearance to fly the Cancun-to-Miami route. The team remained at the hotel while officials worked to find a solution.

In a statement, FIFA said: “Due to an airline permitting error in Mexico, the Uruguay national team’s departure from Cancun to Miami was delayed. The airline has apologised 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 minimise disruption to the team’s travel arrangements.”

The AUF had earlier framed the situation differently, stating: “Due to problems beyond the control of the AUF, the departure from Mexico has been delayed. The squad is resting at the hotel. The new departure time set by FIFA is 4.15pm.” The conflicting accounts left the question of responsibility unresolved.

Uruguay legend Diego Forlán voiced his frustration publicly, writing on social media: “Who is to blame???” before adding “Arriba Uruguay!!”

Bielsa had been scheduled to attend a pre-match press conference at Miami Stadium at 8pm EST on Sunday ahead of Monday’s group fixture.

Uruguay’s disruption is far from an isolated case at this World Cup. Somalian referee Omar Artan was denied entry to the United States despite being on FIFA’s list of approved officials, with unspecified vetting concerns cited. Palestine’s football chief Jibril Rajoub revealed he was still awaiting permission to enter the country as of Friday.

Iran’s football federation (FFIRI) has claimed its fan ticket allocation was revoked just one week before the country’s opening match against New Zealand in Los Angeles, calling the decision one that will “sabotage the presence of Iranian fans.” Ghana’s Thomas Partey, meanwhile, was denied entry to Canada following charges of rape and sexual assault brought by London’s Metropolitan Police.