The 2026 World Cup is already delivering unforgettable moments, and not all of them are happening on the pitch. Sandra Cuevas, who served as mayor of Cuauhtémoc from October 2021 to March 2024, found herself at the center of a social media storm after attending a celebration for Mexico's latest victory.
Mexico, co-hosting the tournament alongside the United States and Canada, has been on fire. El Tri is 2-0 through two group stage matches, having knocked off South Africa and South Korea. Their next test comes Wednesday, June 24, against Czechia, with a spot in the Round of 32 already secured.
But while the team's performance has been stellar, it was Cuevas's outfit that stole headlines. Video of the former mayor wearing a revealing top while cheering on Mexico went viral on X, racking up over one million views. The clip shows her celebrating a goal with unmistakable passion, but not everyone was impressed.
Critics quickly took to social media to voice their disapproval. However, Cuevas didn't back down. Instead, she leaned into the moment, drawing a parallel to Mar Castro, the woman who became a national sensation during the 1986 World Cup under the nickname "La Chiquitibum."
"The Chiquitibum… well, guys, what can I do, I can’t just take them off. They had already nicknamed me that in 1986 and it amuses me, I like it," Cuevas said, according to The Sun. "I don’t take it as an attack, there will be those who think that way and take it in a derogatory way, but that’s how we Mexicans are."
The controversy echoes similar debates about attire at major sporting events. Just recently, a world cup reporter was told to ditch inappropriate wardrobe, and two women were called out for inappropriate world cup outfits. Cuevas's case, however, carries the added weight of her political background.
Her defense struck a chord with many fans who saw the backlash as overblown. Supporters praised her for embracing her identity and the playful spirit of Mexican fandom. Others, though, argued that a former public official should maintain a certain decorum.
Cuevas, for her part, seems unfazed. She posted a video from the celebration at the Ángel de la Independencia in Cuauhtémoc, captioned with a patriotic flourish: "Copa Mundial de Fútbol 2026: ¡Viva México, desde el Ángel de la Independencia en nuestra alcaldía #Cuauhtémoc!" The display of national pride, combined with her unapologetic stance, has only added to the buzz.
As Mexico prepares for the knockout rounds, Cuevas's moment in the spotlight serves as a reminder that the World Cup is as much about culture and personality as it is about goals and wins. Whether you love it or hate it, her outfit—and her response—has become part of this tournament's story.
