Sheinbaum celebrates appointment of Mexican referee for the 2026 World Cup

Merlin the duck, the most viral mascot of the 2026 World Cup, received an invitation from Banco Azteca to watch the Mexico vs Czechia match from the Azteca Tribune. However, the regulations of the Mexico City Stadium prohibit the access of animals of any species.

The regulatory dilemma

The stadium security standard applies to mass events. In addition, the FIFA Code of Conduct also restricts the entry of wildlife, with exceptions only for assistance animals such as guide dogs. Merlin’s presence would require an extraordinary authorization that has not yet been confirmed.

While the mystery is resolved, their owners will be able to attend, included in the World Cup courtesy. The Peking breed bird became famous when it appeared with the Tricolor shirt at the Angel of Independence and was named ambassador of Mexico City. His popularity grew rapidly during the World Cup, making him a social media phenomenon. The invitation from Banco Azteca was a symbolic gesture, but the reality of the regulations could prevent access.

President Claudia Sheinbaum was forceful in ruling out foreign companies exploiting oil in Mexico, within the framework of the review of the T-MEC and the government analysis on fracking.

“How do you think that we, who have fought so hard, are going to hand over the oil to transnational companies! Well, we are not Calderón, we are not Peña!”

Sheinbaum acknowledged that foreign technologies could be used, but stressed that natural resources will not be handed over abroad. He insisted on reducing the United States’ dependence on unconventional gas.

Consultations with communities

The president highlighted the energy sovereignty project and announced that the type of consultation prior to the exploitation of shale gas will be evaluated.

“We have to see if it is a national consultation or if it is a consultation in the area where this exploitation may occur, because in the end the communities will be affected.”

Sheinbaum noted that he will maintain a responsible stance, listening to environmental groups that oppose hydraulic fracturing. He assured that past mistakes will not be repeated and that the communities will have a voice in the process.

The government will prioritize sustainability and respect for local populations before any decision on fracking.

Sheinbaum defends validity of the T-MEC

President Claudia Sheinbaum ruled out that tensions between Canada and the United States put the Treaty between Mexico, the United States and Canada (T-MEC) at risk. He pointed out that any profound change would require the approval of the congresses of the three countries, so he considered it unlikely that any would seek to exclude another.

“We do not believe that this is either Canada’s position, nor the United States’ position, nor our position,” he said during his morning conference.

Sheinbaum announced that a communication on the continuity of the treaty and possible revisions is expected at the beginning of July. The context is marked by the protectionist trade policy of US President Donald Trump. Currently the negotiations are carried out separately, although Mexico has insisted on tripartite dialogues. He highlighted that the T-MEC continues to be a key tool against China.

Canadian investment and security

As an example of the strengthening of ties, Sheinbaum mentioned an upcoming Canadian investment in the port of Altamira, Tamaulipas, which will increase maritime exchange. In security, he assured that Mexico offers conditions for foreign investment and that reported cases are attended to. Regarding accusations against Canadian mining companies, he indicated that they must be formalized before authorities and that the security cabinet is investigating two cases. He required these companies to comply with environmental standards.

The president defended the advances in security: intentional homicides were reduced by 46% in 20 months. He also highlighted the positive image of the country during the Soccer World Cup, pointing out that “Mexico is in the world’s view today” for the hospitality of its population.

Regarding the meeting with the United States, Sheinbaum described the second round of talks led by Marcelo Ebrard as “very good.” He reported that on July 1 there will be a trilateral virtual meeting and between July 15 and 16 there will be a face-to-face meeting in Mexico.