Internal crisis forced Orsi to stay and not accompany Uruguay to the World Cup; the chancellor will attend in his place

President Yamandú Orsi has reversed his decision to attend the opening match of the Uruguayan national football team at the World Cup, citing a combination of pressing domestic agenda items and the lingering effects of a recent political controversy.

Initially set to travel for the June 15th match in Miami, Orsi announced just two days later that he would not be attending. He explained that his "headaches" included the government's accountability report due to parliament at the end of the month and a crucial competitiveness bill. These domestic priorities, he stated, made him "more inclined not to go."

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after thinking it over, I'm more inclined not to go.

However, sources within the Presidency and the Chancellery revealed to El País that the decision was also significantly influenced by the recent political storm surrounding Orsi's purchase of a Hyundai Santa Fe SUV. The controversy, which involved questions about the vehicle's acquisition and a $25,000 discount, drew criticism from both the opposition and within the ruling coalition. Although Orsi attempted to put the issue behind him by donating the vehicle to public education, the "local events" reportedly played a role in his final decision to avoid the high-profile international event.

An official note sent to the Senate President cited "force majeure" reasons, but government insiders acknowledge the impact of the "local events." One government source lamented that the "local scenario ended up overshadowing the possibility of participating in a stage where big games are played." The potential for Orsi to meet with U.S. President Donald Trump, a diplomatic opportunity for the Chancellery, was also discarded before Orsi's final decision.

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The local scenario ended up overshadowing the possibility of participating in a stage where big games are played.