Uruguay crashed out of the 2026 World Cup in the worst possible way. Beaten by Spain on June 27 in Guadalajara (0-1), La Celeste were eliminated in the group stage. A huge failure for a historic nation, two-time world champions, who had clearly hoped for a very different campaign.
But the return home is set to be even harsher. According to Uruguayan journalist Martin Charquero, the federation has decided to cancel the private jet that was supposed to take the players back to Montevideo. As a result, the entire delegation must return on a commercial flight, like ordinary passengers.
Uruguay punished after World Cup elimination
The sanction is neither financial nor sporting. It is symbolic. But it is making a lot of noise. By removing the private jet for the return trip, the Uruguayan Football Association is sending a clear message: this elimination is deemed unacceptable.
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For the players, the contrast is brutal. After a failed campaign, there is no question of enjoying the usual comfort of a private flight. The federation appears determined to make a statement and publicly show its dissatisfaction after such a humiliating exit.
On the pitch, Uruguay collapsed against Spain in a must-win match to qualify. La Celeste cracked following a huge blunder, with an own goal by Fernando Muslera in the 42nd minute after a poorly handled shot from Alex Baena. That single goal was enough to send Spain through and push Uruguay into the abyss. The night turned into a nightmare: Manuel Ugarte left on a stretcher in tears with a knee injury, Marcelo Bielsa made multiple changes, and Agustin Canobbio was sent off in stoppage time. A chaotic ending to a completely failed World Cup.
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