On Tuesday, Juana Carrillo, the Morena-affiliated mayor of Cuautitlán in the State of Mexico, attended the Mexico vs. Ecuador soccer match at Estadio Azteca from a highly exclusive VIP area. The tickets for this section reportedly range between 100,000 and 150,000 pesos, placing her experience far from the average fan’s reach.

Carrillo shared videos and photos on her social media showing her close proximity to the field, proudly wearing a green jersey and celebrating Mexico’s first goal. During two live streams from the stadium, she faced sharp criticism from viewers who questioned her presence in such a costly zone amid ongoing public concerns.

Comments like “Enjoy what you stole,” “All your traffic lights are failures,” and “We’re drowning here” flooded her live feed. The mayor responded firmly, stating, “We’re working like never before,” while continuing her broadcast.

Her actions stand in stark contrast to the austerity message promoted by Mexico City’s head of government, Claudia Sheinbaum. Sheinbaum has publicly urged officials to avoid VIP areas at soccer matches and even relinquished her own seat to an athlete. Additionally, she banned public servants from keeping World Cup tickets due to their high prices.

This episode highlights ongoing tensions around public spending and officials’ conduct, especially as Mexico debates investments in inclusive infrastructure like Puebla’s upcoming cable car system—a project aimed at improving urban mobility for all citizens, not just the privileged few.