Mexican politicians trade insults online over World Cup attendance

A public spat erupted on social media between Citlalli Hernández, president of Morena's National Elections Commission, and Luis Felipe Calderón, son of former President Felipe Calderón Hinojosa. The conflict ignited after Luis Felipe Calderón criticized President Claudia Sheinbaum for attending the 2026 World Cup final in the United States, questioning her decision not to attend matches in Mexico, a co-host nation.

Calderón suggested Sheinbaum opted for the "most expensive final in history" in the world's costliest city, implying she avoided potential public disapproval in Mexico. Hernández retorted, attributing his criticism to inherited "narrow-mindedness." She clarified that Sheinbaum attended the final as head of state and co-host, not merely as a spectator.

The exchange quickly devolved into personal attacks. Hernández targeted Luis Felipe's father, stating, "Your father is the least loved person in Mexico, perhaps that's why he abuses alcohol." She accused the former president of "blooding our country," making deals with cartels, and being "the most hated."

Luis Felipe Calderón fired back, calling Hernández a "slandering sheep" and repeating accusations of his father's alleged alcohol abuse. He defended his father's legacy, claiming he "had the courage to confront organized crime" and highlighting his academic achievements from ITAM and Harvard as proof of his lucidity. He also questioned Hernández's professional qualifications, suggesting she lacked a professional license and entered the Senate with incomplete primary education.