League: MLS Sport: Soccer Country: United States Category: Playoffs

Cuba prepares for World Cup amid US tensions in Miami

The Guardian Sport • 1 min read • Latest: Jun 11, 2026, 12:00 PM

Last updated Jun 11, 2026

Cuba prepares for World Cup amid US tensions in Miami

Summary

Cuba hopes the ongoing World Cup in Miami will provide relief amid escalating tensions with the United States due to a five-month oil blockade. Carlos Alzugaray, a former ambassador, expressed that the tournament presents a strategic opportunity, making military action less likely during this period. Many in Cuba view the event as a chance to shift focus away from potential aggression. The World Cup runs until July 19, and expectations hinge on the international spotlight it brings.

Source Links

The Guardian Sport

Key Details

•World Cup matches occur in nearby Miami, heightening local tensions.
•Cuban officials hope the tournament will deter US military action.
•Cuba is under a prolonged US oil blockade affecting its economy.
•Carlos Alzugaray indicates potential military vulnerabilities for the US.

Latest Updates

12:00 PMThe Guardian Sport — Cuba hopes for World Cup respite from US sabre-rattling – but prepares for the worst

What they're saying

"
With some matches being held in nearby Miami, a Cuban response to US military action could mar the tournament As Cuba crumbles under a nearly five-month-long US oil blockade, many on the island hope that the World Cup might save the island from US attack – or at least offer a respite until the competition ends on 19 July. “The beginning of the World Cup will make it more difficult for the United States to carry out a military action in Cuba,” said Carlos Alzugaray, Cuba’s former ambassador to the EU. “Cuba is very close to the US, and can hit many targets inside the US, especially in south Florida, with drones or other weapons.” Continue reading...
— The Guardian Sportby Ruaridh Nicoll in Havana

Related Teams & Leagues

Inter Miami MLS Soccer

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External links

The Guardian SportJun 11, 2026, 12:00 PM
Cuba hopes for World Cup respite from US sabre-rattling – but prepares for the worst
With some matches being held in nearby Miami, a Cuban response to US military action could mar the tournament As Cuba crumbles under a nearly five-month-long US oil blockade, many on the island hope that the World Cup might save the island from US attack – or at least offer a respite until the competition ends on 19 July. “The beginning of the World Cup will make it more difficult for the United States to carry out a military action in Cuba,” said Carlos Alzugaray, Cuba’s former ambassador to the EU. “Cuba is very close to the US, and can hit many targets inside the US, especially in south Florida, with drones or other weapons.” Continue reading...

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