Marcelo Bielsa’s Uruguay disrupted by airline error before World Cup opener in Miami

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·16 June 2026

Marcelo Bielsa’s Uruguay disrupted by airline error before World Cup opener in Miami

Marcelo Bielsa’s Uruguay suffered late disruption to their World Cup build-up after a permitting error ahead of tonight’s opener.

FIFA said an airline permitting error in Mexico delayed the squad’s departure from Cancun to Miami, the airline apologised, and FIFA stayed in close contact with the team while working with airport and operational partners to expedite the process and minimise disruption.

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The initial flight was cancelled and a replacement aircraft was arranged, which meant Bielsa missed his scheduled pre-match press conference on Sunday. He spoke to the media later, after the team had reached the United States.

Bielsa subsequently played down the episode.

Uruguay face Saudi Arabia in Group H in Miami at 11pm tonight.

Source: yorkshireeveningpost.co.uk