From 'Siquitibum' to 'Adelante México': Songs that defined Mexico's 1986 World Cup

The music of the 1986 Mexico World Cup, particularly songs created by the host nation, holds a special place in the memories of many, even if some have faded into obscurity. These tunes, once popular on the radio, are now being rediscovered on platforms like YouTube, with original vinyl records fetching significant prices among collectors.

"Bienvenidos" emerged from a competition organized by the World Cup committee, presented on the program "Siempre en Domingo." The song, a blend of pop and folk influences by the group Copal, invited global unity and friendship, with lyrics stating, "The door is open, the soul is willing." An English version was also recorded by Joe Hood.

"México 86," composed by Chilean Juan Carlos Abara, featured the prominent line, "the world united by a ball." Initially, Emilio Azcárraga found the first version too focused on Mexico and lacking emotion, especially given the nation's recovery from the devastating 1985 earthquake. Abara revised it to reflect Mexico's "proud heart," and FIFA executive Guillermo Cañedo ultimately selected "the world united by a ball" as the main promotional theme.

The mascot, Pique, a jalapeño pepper with a mustache, also inspired its own theme song. The lyrics captured the excitement of scoring goals and the "beating of hearts." This song, along with "México 86," was sold as a "Disco Poster" on 45 RPM records at newspaper stands.

Another notable track, "Siquitibum (Al Ritmo del Mundial)," composed by Mauricio del Valle and performed by Nacho Golacho, cleverly integrated the famous cheer "chiquitibum, a la bim bom ba." The song's narrative centered on meeting a blonde girl who came to watch Mexico score its first goal and was also featured in a beer brand's advertising campaign.