Uruguay Football Federation Cancels Charter Return Flight After World Cup Elimination

Uruguay's national team failed to progress beyond the group stage of the 2026 World Cup, losing 0‑1 to Spain after draws with Saudi Arabia and the Green Islands, leaving the squad with two points. Following the defeat, the Uruguayan Football Association (AUF) announced that the charter flight scheduled to bring the players home from their base in Playa del Carmen, Mexico, to Montevideo was cancelled. The federation said the players must now arrange individual commercial flights, a move described by local media as a punitive response to the team's poor performance.

Coach Marcelo Bielsa, who oversaw the campaign, resigned after the exit and faced criticism for his tactics and intensive training methods. Several players, including goalkeeper Fernando Muslera and captain Federico Valverde, publicly questioned his approach during the tournament.

Separately, Uruguay midfielder Manuel Ugarte, who plays for Manchester United, suffered a severe knee injury in the group match against Spain. Medical assessments suggest a recovery period of nine to twelve months, jeopardising a planned high‑value transfer for the English club.