Wembley, England – Ahead of their international friendly against England on Friday, members of the Uruguay national team found themselves contemplating not just victory on the pitch, but likewise a rather unusual question about their ultimate resting place. Defenders Guillermo Varela and Joaquín Piquerez were asked about the “Panteón de los Olímpicos,” a unique tradition at the Cementerio del Buceo in Montevideo, Uruguay, where four World Cup-winning squads are interred together.
The unexpected line of questioning came during a pre-match press conference from Argentine journalist Christian Martin, representing DSports. Martin described the tradition of Uruguay’s footballing heroes choosing to be buried alongside their championship teammates, a practice born from the successes of the 1924 and 1928 Olympic champions, and the 1930 and 1950 World Cup-winning sides.
“I wanted to ask you about something particularly special that I don’t know if you know: the Panteón de los Olímpicos, in the Buceo cemetery, has four World Cup-winning squads in the same tomb; they agreed to be together forever,” Martin posed to the Uruguayan defenders. He then followed up with a direct question: “Uruguay could very well turn into champions. Would you accept going to that tomb?”
Varela, initially taken aback, admitted he was unfamiliar with the tradition. “I don’t know what you wish me to answer,” he said, before adding, “I didn’t know, but yes, hopefully we can win the World Cup and they bury us there with them.” When pressed on his willingness to join his teammates in the Panteón de los Olímpicos should they achieve World Cup glory, Varela responded emphatically, “De cabeza, if we win the World Cup, yes.” Piquerez chimed in with a more lighthearted response, “We’ll sign it now, ha.”
The conversation offered a glimpse into the players’ thoughts as they prepare for a challenging match against England at Wembley Stadium. The Uruguay squad, currently preparing for the 2026 World Cup, faces a tough test against the Three Lions before continuing their international schedule with a match against Algeria.
Beyond the philosophical question of their final resting place, both players expressed confidence in the team’s ability to compete on the world stage. Piquerez emphasized the importance of dreaming big, stating, “Everyone dreams of being a champion. If you don’t have that dream, that desire, it becomes a little more difficult. Then, you seem at the quality of players we have, and they are all of a high level.”
Varela echoed this sentiment, stressing the need for a pragmatic approach. “Uruguay has to take it one game at a time. First, the group stage, and then, in the final stretch, obviously tighten up and give our best to leave Uruguay where it deserves to be. And I think this squad has players with the quality to do well.”
The team’s preparation under coach Marcelo Bielsa is focused and detailed. Varela explained that Bielsa’s staff has been utilizing video analysis and tactical drills to prepare for both England and Algeria. “Marcelo has shown us some compacts and movements of how we should press and play out from the back,” Varela revealed, highlighting the thoroughness of the coaching staff’s approach.
Piquerez added that the team is well-versed in the strengths of their upcoming opponents, particularly the English players they face in their respective club leagues. He also acknowledged the recent improvements in the Algerian national team, noting, “Algeria has always been a very strong team, but they have improved a lot in recent years.”
For Piquerez, the opportunity to play at Wembley Stadium is a particularly special one. “I’ve never played at Wembley, I always watched it on television. All the mystique and history that this stadium has… it will be a dream to be able to play there,” he said, expressing his excitement about the atmosphere and the significance of the venue.
Uruguay is drawn into Group H for the 2026 World Cup, which will be co-hosted by the United States, Mexico, and Canada. They will begin their campaign against Saudi Arabia on June 15th, followed by a match against Cabo Verde on June 21st, and concluding the group stage against Spain on June 26th. The team will undoubtedly be looking to add to Uruguay’s rich footballing history, and perhaps, secure a place alongside their legendary predecessors in the Panteón de los Olímpicos.
The unique tradition at the Cementerio del Buceo speaks to the deep-rooted passion for football in Uruguay and the enduring legacy of its national team. It’s a tradition that clearly resonates with the current generation of players, who seem more than willing to embrace the idea of eternal companionship with their championship teammates, should they achieve the ultimate success.
Next Up: Uruguay will face England in a friendly at Wembley Stadium on Friday, March 27th. Kick-off is scheduled for 7:45 PM GMT. Following the match against England, La Celeste will travel to Algeria for another international friendly on March 31st.
What are your thoughts on Uruguay’s chances at the 2026 World Cup? Share your predictions in the comments below!
