MEXICO CITY — On Friday, President Claudia Sheinbaum of Mexico fulfilled her promise by gifting her ticket to the World Cup’s opening match.
Sheinbaum, who made history as the first female president in Mexico’s 200-year history, presented ticket No. 00001 to 21-year-old Yolett Cervantes Cuaquehua, an Indigenous woman from Veracruz.
– President Sheinbaum sees ‘no issue’ with hosting the Iran World Cup team
– New York and New Jersey subpoena FIFA regarding World Cup ticket investigation
– All squads for the World Cup announced so far
Mexico will face South Africa in the opening match on June 11 at Azteca Stadium.
Cervantes Cuaquehua was chosen as the winner of a contest based on her exceptional ball-handling skills.
“They embody the pride of Mexico. They won’t be representing the president or the government, but all of Mexico,” Sheinbaum stated during a news conference where she presented the ticket to Cervantes Cuaquehua.
In addition to Cervantes Cuaquehua, the president also awarded tickets to other matches in Mexican cities hosting the World Cup—Mexico City, Guadalajara, and Monterrey. Three other amateur athletes, aged 16, 22, and 23, were selected by a jury for their talents as part of the same contest.
“Thank you so much for considering us,” expressed Cervantes Cuaquehua.
Earlier in March, Sheinbaum decided against attending the opening match, emphasizing the importance of spotlighting young Mexican female soccer players.
The president’s decision sparked a blend of reactions across Mexico. While many praised her choice as commendable, others criticized it as a missed opportunity for promoting the country.