Mexico Receives Widespread Praise for World Cup Hosting and Team Performance
Mexico has garnered significant international acclaim for its role as a co-host of the FIFA men's World Cup, with world leaders, FIFA officials, and fans commending the nation's organization and the spirited atmosphere. Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum highlighted the positive reception from figures such as U.S. President Donald Trump, Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney, and Spanish King Felipe VI, who praised both the hosting efforts and the performance of the Mexican national team. The Mexican team, 'El Tri,' advanced to the round of 16 after a strong showing in the group stage and round of 32, sparking widespread celebrations across the country.
Mexico earned widespread praise for its hosting of the recent FIFA men's World Cup, with President Claudia Sheinbaum reporting positive feedback from various international figures. Attending the World Cup final in New Jersey, President Sheinbaum noted that U.S. President Donald Trump, Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney, and Spanish King Felipe VI spoke glowingly about Mexico's hosting capabilities and its national soccer team.
Sheinbaum, who was invited to the final by President Trump, stated that other dignitaries present, including Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez, U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio, First Lady Melania Trump, and FIFA President Gianni Infantino, also expressed admiration for Mexico as a co-host alongside the United States and Canada. Sheinbaum further asserted that Mexico provided the best World Cup atmosphere among the three co-hosts and received commendations for its warm welcome to participating teams and tourists.
The Mexican national team, known as 'El Tri,' showcased a strong performance in the tournament, winning all three of its group stage matches and defeating Ecuador in the round of 32. Their campaign concluded with a 3-2 loss to England in a round of 16 game held in Mexico City. The team's four victories spurred large celebrations in Mexican cities, particularly the capital.
Several nations, including South Africa, Spain, Uruguay, and England, played matches in Mexico. The Iranian team also established its base camp in Tijuana, where it received a warm welcome, despite playing its matches in the United States. During the tournament, King Felipe VI of Spain watched his country play Uruguay in Guadalajara following a meeting with President Sheinbaum in Mexico City.
President Sheinbaum also presented the Golden Ball award to Spanish captain Rodri Hernández, who was recognized as the best player of the 2026 FIFA World Cup. On the security front, Rodrigo Martínez-Celis, FIFA's executive director for safety and security in Mexico, informed EFE that Mexico had demonstrated its readiness to host the World Cup, crediting the Mexican security team for an excellent job despite prior concerns. Sheinbaum had consistently maintained that security for tourists during the World Cup was guaranteed.
According to Mexico News Daily, these accolades underline Mexico's successful contribution to the global football event.
