Sheinbaum rules out risk for the T-MEC due to trade tensions

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.

President Claudia Sheinbaum congratulated referee Katia Itzel García for her historic appointment as central judge in the Netherlands vs Tunisia match at the 2026 World Cup.

The president described the achievement as an example of perseverance and a message of empowerment for Mexican girls, boys and women. He highlighted that the presence of the Aztec whistler in the highest competition in international football represents a benchmark for improvement.

Sheinbaum stressed that this appointment demonstrates that spaces of high competition and professional leadership are open for the development of women in any field they propose.

The appointment of García as central referee is unprecedented for a Mexican in a men’s World Cup. The match between the Netherlands and Tunisia will be played during the group stage of the tournament organized by the United States, Canada and Mexico.