Ecuador complain to World Cup organisers over Mexico fans' hotel noise
Short overview
Ecuador's football federation has filed a complaint with World Cup organisers after around 1,000 Mexico supporters staged a noisy serenade outside their team hotel in Mexico City ahead of their last-32 match against the co-hosts.
Ecuador's football federation has lodged a formal complaint with World Cup organisers over disruptive behaviour by Mexico fans outside their team hotel in Mexico City, ahead of their last-32 match against the co-hosts.
Local media reported that approximately 1,000 Mexico supporters gathered outside the hotel on Monday, using noisemakers, pans, and buckets to perform a loud rendition of the Mexican folk song "Cielito Lindo" — a traditional serenade — before police intervened and moved the crowd back.
Federation statement condemns conduct
In a statement released on Tuesday, the Ecuadorian Football Federation (FEF) condemned the actions, saying: "This conduct is far removed from the principles of fair play, equality and unity that a football World Cup should represent." The statement added that Ecuador would "always respond on the pitch."
The match is scheduled for Wednesday at 02:00 BST at Mexico City Stadium. Mexico have won all three of their World Cup matches at this venue, while Ecuador secured their place in the knockout stages with a shock victory over Germany.
Appeal for sportsmanship
The FEF expressed hope that such incidents would not mar the tournament, stating: "We trust that these unsporting acts will not tarnish the football celebration that unites two brotherly countries."
England, who face DR Congo on Wednesday at 17:00 BST, would play Mexico in Mexico City if both teams win their last-32 fixtures.
FIFA has been contacted for comment but has not yet responded.
More on these topics
England U20s Boss Says FA Told Her to 'Continue as Usual' Amid Uefa
England U20s head coach Lydia Bedford says the FA has told her to 'continue as usual' ahead of the U20 Women's World Cup, despite Uefa's threat to boycott the tournament. She remains focused on preparing her squad, while players and officials express mixed views on the potential boycott.
Messi's Emotional Tribute to Late Father Jorge After World Cup Final
Lionel Messi revealed the emotional burden of playing through his father's final illness during the 2026 World Cup, sharing a heartfelt letter after Argentina's final defeat. The 39-year-old dedicated his campaign to fulfilling his father's last wish to see him in another final.
UEFA-led alliance calls for rotation of FIFA presidency among
A UEFA-led alliance is pushing for FIFA presidential elections to be rotated among continental confederations, aiming to prevent any future president from amassing power like Gianni Infantino. The proposal is part of broader reforms to oust Infantino.
Europe's Defining Moments at the U-20 Women's World Cup
As Europe prepares to send six nations to the 2026 FIFA U-20 Women's World Cup, we revisit the confederation's most memorable moments, including Germany's 2010 triumph, France's record 11-0 win, and Spain's 2022 title.
