Uruguay Roundup: Reducing CO2 emissions, referendum, Copa América qualifiers

National team controversies

Marcelo Bielsa, head coach of the Uruguay national team, is currently navigating internal tensions within the squad. Key players such as Luis Suárez and Agustín Canobbio have voiced criticism regarding the team's atmosphere and management style. Following a tense meeting with significant players and officials, Bielsa convened a second discussion aimed at addressing issues concerning new rules and team dynamics ahead of their upcoming match against Peru. Initial reports according to Footboom indicated that these discussions yielded a positive reception, with players articulating their discomfort while simultaneously expressing support for Bielsa.

Reducing carbon emissions

In infrastructure developments, the Grupo Vía Central consortium has successfully acquired an extra $110 million dedicated to the Central Railway project in Uruguay. IRJ reports that funding sources for this latest phase include $65 million from Allianz Capital Partners and $45 million from CAF Asset Management, complementing earlier rounds of financing amounting to $858 million in 2019, $75 million in 2020, and $250 million in 2022. The project's environmental objective includes a reduction of 40,000 tonnes of CO2 emissions annually, aligning with NGE's commitment to sustainable infrastructure development. Additionally, the initiative has attracted financial backing from the Inter-American Development Bank and Sumitomo Mitsui Banking Corporation, with Astris Finance serving as the principal financial advisor.

Referendum

On the political landscape, Uruguay is poised to hold a referendum later this month regarding a proposal to lower the retirement age from 65 to 60. This proposed reform has sparked investor anxieties, primarily surrounding potential financial instability. Supported by left-wing unions, this shift seeks to dismantle the private pension model established in 1996 and transition to a public system, a change that poses risks of increasing state debt and worsening pension deficits, estimated to reach $1 billion annually, reports The Straits Times.

Paranair resumes flights

Paranair has launched a direct route between Montevideo and Salto, restoring this connection after more than twenty years. The inaugural flight, attended by airline representatives and officials, landed at Salto International Airport in under 45 minutes. Using modern CRJ-200 aircraft with a capacity of 50 passengers, the route offers two weekly flights on Tuesdays and Thursdays, significantly enhancing connectivity between the capital and the coast, Aviacion News reports.

Copa América qualifiers

Finally, former Ecuador national team coach Jorge Célico has expressed firm belief that Ecuador possesses a competitive advantage over Paraguay and Uruguay in the ongoing qualifying phase for the Copa América. He encourages the team to take a proactive stance during matches and asserts that the quality of players in Ecuador presents a significant edge. According to Footboom, Célico critiques former coaching decisions, citing inconsistencies in player selection and disciplinary actions, particularly regarding the management of player misconduct. He stresses the importance of respecting the national jersey and insists on clearer communication from coaches regarding their tactical decisions.