On Wednesday, June 10, 2026, Mikel Arriola, president of the Mexican Football Federation (FMF), clarified that he did not extend a special invitation to businessman Ricardo Salinas Pliego to attend the 2026 World Cup opening match as a representative of the Mexican people, contrary to claims made by Salinas Pliego himself.

The clarification came after Salinas Pliego posted on his X account that Arriola had invited him to the inaugural match between Mexico and South Africa, scheduled for Thursday, June 11, 2026. In his message, Salinas Pliego wrote: “Today I met at home with Mikel Arriola and my son Benjamín Salinas. We discussed the importance of private initiative in the FIFA World Cup, and he invited me to attend tomorrow’s opening match representing hardworking and good Mexicans.”

Arriola responded via social media, emphasizing that his meeting with the Grupo Salinas director was part of his official duties, given Salinas Pliego’s role in FMF through TV Azteca’s broadcast rights. He stressed that the FMF does not engage in Mexico’s political affairs and distanced himself from any political implications suggested by the encounter.

This meeting occurs amid heightened tensions, as Salinas Pliego, owner of TV Azteca, recently announced the possibility of organizing violent protests against Mexico’s left-leaning government, which he openly opposes. Known for his far-right stance, Salinas Pliego’s family history includes his father, Hugo Salinas Price, who financed far-right paramilitary groups decades ago.

In a recent event, Salinas Pliego hinted at escalating resistance, stating, “It will have to be something tougher. For example: maybe a strike will be necessary at some point.”

For many, this episode highlights the complex intersection of sports, media, and politics in Mexico, especially as the country prepares to host one of the world’s biggest sporting events. While the FMF maintains a focus on football, the broader political context remains impossible to ignore.