FIFA clarifies 'airline enablement error' caused Uruguay's delay

FIFA has explained that an "airline enablement error in Mexico" was the cause of the Uruguayan national team's significant delay in reaching Miami for their opening match in the 2026 World Cup. The team arrived more than three hours late for their scheduled flight.

The airline responsible has issued an apology for the disruptions caused. FIFA stated that it remained in constant communication with the Uruguayan squad throughout the waiting period. The organization also worked closely with airport officials and operational partners to expedite the process and lessen the impact on the team's travel schedule.

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Due to an airline enablement error in Mexico, the departure of the Uruguayan national team from Cancun to Miami was delayed. The airline has already apologized for the inconvenience caused.

Despite the delay, the Uruguayan delegation landed safely at Fort Lauderdale International Airport. Subsequently, coach Marcelo Bielsa and team captain José María Giménez proceeded to the Hard Rock Stadium in Miami for a press conference. The rest of the team traveled directly to their designated hotel in Miami, where a large contingent of Uruguayan fans had gathered.

Uruguay is set to begin their World Cup 2026 campaign against Saudi Arabia in Group H on Monday at 18:00 local time (22:00 GMT). The other teams in Group H, Spain and Cape Verde, will play their match earlier that day at 16:00 GMT. This incident brings to mind a similar delay faced by Uruguay during the 2010 World Cup in South Africa, where they ultimately finished in fourth place.

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FIFA remained in permanent contact with the Uruguayan squad during the wait and worked alongside airport authorities and operational partners to expedite the process and minimize complications in the team's travel itinerary.