On Friday, June 12, 2026, President Claudia Sheinbaum addressed circulating rumors about Yolett Cervantes Cuaquehua’s presence at the 2026 World Cup opening match between Mexico and South Africa at Estadio Ciudad de México.

Yolett, a young football fan from Veracruz, was originally given the ticket that belonged to Sheinbaum for the event. The president confirmed during her morning press conference that she personally chose not to attend the game and instead gave her seat to Yolett as part of a deliberate decision aligned with her government’s values.

Sheinbaum explained, “Very few people can afford a ticket at that price. Some can, and it’s great they went to the stadium. But as president, I preferred to give the spot to someone who otherwise wouldn’t have been able to attend, someone who loves football, especially a young woman.”

The president also recalled informing FIFA’s president Gianni Infantino of her decision when he first delivered the ticket: “The day Gianni Infantino came to give me the ticket, I told him right away, ‘I’m not going to the stadium; I’m giving it to a young woman.’”

To put an end to doubts about Yolett’s attendance, Sheinbaum shared a video recorded by the young fan herself during the event. In the footage, Yolett wears a traditional dress from Tlaquilpa, Veracruz, handcrafted by local artisans.

“Hello, friends. I’m ready to go to the World Cup opening. I’m wearing my traditional outfit from Tlaquilpa, made by the artisans of my town,” she says.

The video captures Yolett’s excitement as she approaches the stadium: “I never imagined I would be at a World Cup, especially representing President Claudia Sheinbaum. One of my childhood dreams is coming true today.”

The footage also shows her inside the stadium and participating in official activities related to the inauguration, including moments with FIFA representatives like Gianni Infantino.

This gesture highlights a thoughtful approach to inclusivity and representation, giving a passionate young fan the chance to experience a historic event firsthand.