Cruz Azul vs Chivas: the Clausura 2026 semifinals begin

Isaac del Toro’s performance in the Tour de France did not go unnoticed in Mexico. Minutes after the Baja California cyclist took the podium in Paris, president Claudia Sheinbaum joined in the congratulations and recognized the impact of his performance.

Presidential recognition

The rider from Ensenada completed the 21 stages of the most prestigious competition in world cycling, reached third place in the general classification and established himself as one of the great revelations of the season. In addition, he took the title of best young cyclist of the Tour.

The president highlighted the effort and discipline of the athlete:

“Many congratulations to young Isaac del Toro for his historic third place in the Tour de France. With this great achievement he becomes the first Mexican to get on the podium of this prestigious competition and the most outstanding young man in cycling today.”

Sheinbaum, who has congratulated the runner on previous occasions, stressed national pride in his demonstration.

“Mexico is very proud of your effort, dedication and of this great moment that inspires an entire country. Congratulations, Isaac! May the successes continue,” he concluded.

Del Toro’s achievement marks a milestone for Mexican sport and positions him as an emerging figure in international cycling.

Liga MX held the Ballon d’Or Gala, where the best of the 2025–26 season was awarded. Headed by Mikel Arriola and Mariana Gutiérrez, the ceremony recognized soccer players chosen by teams, captains, coaches and the fans.

The big winners

The Brazilian Joao Pedro, from Atlético de San Luis, was the absolute protagonist. He won three awards: Goalscorer of the Season, Forward of the Year and Player of the Season. In the women’s branch, the Spanish Irene Guerrero (America) was distinguished as Player of the season.

Antonio Mohamed, Toluca coach, received the Technical Director of the season award. He will lead the Liga MX all-star team in the All-Star Game against MLS.

Additional Acknowledgments

Other winners: Nahuel Guzmán (Best goalkeeper, Tigres), Erik Lira (Best central defense, Cruz Azul), Bryan González (Best full back, Chivas), Brian Gutiérrez (Best rookie, Chivas), Marcel Ruiz (Best defensive midfielder, Toluca) and Nicolás Castro (Best offensive midfielder, Toluca).

Cruz Azul was recognized as the best club of the season, and Efraín Álvarez (Chivas) scored the best goal of the year.

The Ballon d’Or Gala reflects the growth and competitiveness of Mexican soccer, highlighting talent in both branches.

Dozens of people marched this Saturday from the Hemicycle to Juárez towards the former United States embassy in Mexico City. The protest, called within the framework of the Cuban Revolution, demanded the end of the economic blockade, the end of threats of military intervention and the resumption of the shipment of Mexican oil to the island.

From 9:30 a.m., the contingents advanced along Paseo de la Reforma with slogans such as “Cuba yes, blockade no” and “Mexican oil for the Cuban people.”

Olivia Garza, from the Association of Cuban Residents in Mexico, stated to EL UNIVERSAL that United States aggression has intensified. “They want to starve a people who have only exercised their right to build their own society,” he said. He described Donald Trump’s foreign policy as “authoritarian” and warned about the risk of military aggression, promoted by the Secretary of State, Marco Rubio.

Ivonne Guerra, also from the association, described the blockade as an “economic, financial and commercial suffocation” that has been going on for 67 years. He recognized the support of Mexico, a country that has sent humanitarian aid due to historical ties, and asked that these shipments be resumed.

Silvia Ramo attended to commemorate the anniversary of the Cuban Revolution. He requested increased humanitarian aid, but warned that US pressure makes it difficult for Mexico to send oil directly. She criticized the US interventionist policy in Latin America and other regions.

The protesters agreed that Mexico has been one of the few governments that maintains a position of sovereignty and self-determination in the face of pressure from Washington.