As the World Cup continues, fans from Mexico and Ecuador have put aside their countries’ strained diplomatic relations to enjoy the festive atmosphere in Mexico City. Despite a raucous midnight serenade outside the Ecuadorian team hotel, fans from both countries have been respectful and welcoming to one another.
Leaving Politics Off the Pitch
The two countries broke off relations in April 2024 after Ecuador’s raid on the Mexican embassy in Quito. However, fans at the Azteca Stadium say football remains separate from politics. “That’s football, it’s normal,” said Ecuadorean fan Jonathan Toledo. “We’ve had a great experience here. Everyone has been very friendly.”
Supporters arriving at the stadium described their interactions with Mexican fans as welcoming and respectful. “The Mexican people have been very kind, very friendly and very courteous,” said Fernando Salinas, a fan who travelled from Ambato in central Ecuador.
Original reporting: Appleton, WI News Feed (HLL/CB) — read the source article.