Sheinbaum on World Cup Final Trip: 'It's important diplomatically'

Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum announced her attendance at the FIFA World Cup 2026 final in New York, emphasizing its diplomatic significance. She highlighted that the presence of the leaders from the three co-hosting nations, Mexico, the United States, and Canada, underscores strong coordination and collaboration.

Sheinbaum accepted an invitation from U.S. President Donald Trump and confirmed that Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney would also be present. "It is important in diplomatic terms that the three countries that hosted this World Cup are here," Sheinbaum stated in a video posted on X, formerly Twitter. She plans to represent Mexico at the event before returning to Mexico City early Monday.

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It is important in diplomatic terms that the three countries that hosted this World Cup are here.

This trip occurs as the Mexican government, alongside the private sector, finalizes its priorities for the third round of negotiations on the T-MEC trade agreement with the U.S. and Canada. The talks are scheduled for next week in Mexico City. This round marks the beginning of a new phase for the treaty following its six-year review, which extended its validity until 2036 but includes annual evaluations.

Sheinbaum's decision to attend the final contrasts with her absence from the World Cup's opening match in Mexico on June 11, where she gave her ticket to an indigenous girl, drawing criticism. She had previously attended two football festivals in Mexico City to watch national team matches.

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So we are going to represent Mexico tomorrow and we will be back early Monday in Mexico City.