The 2026 World Cup prelude continues to generate expectation in Mexico, especially in Guadalajara, one of the official venues of the tournament. However, in the last few hours, a piece of news sparked the debate among fans: Saúl “Canelo” Álvarez did not appear on the list of ambassadors for the 2026 World Cup in Guadalajara, despite being one of the most famous and representative sports figures in Jalisco.
The official presentation of the 24 ambassadors of the Guadalajara venue took place on Monday at the Akron Stadium, located in Zapopan. The event brought together former sports stars and sought to reinforce the enthusiasm for the matches to be played at the stadium. But what was most striking was the absence of the Mexican boxing champion, who was considered by many as a natural candidate to represent Guadalajara before the world. According to what is reported in the text, the reason for the absence was economic. Journalist Luis Castillo stated that Canelo had declined FIFA’s invitation because he asked for financial compensation for the use of his image in campaigns and promotion of the tournament. According to this information, FIFA offered as an alternative tickets for the matches at the Akron, but this proposal was not enough to convince the boxer.
Why would Canelo have refused?
The decision is described as being related to the commercial value of the Canelo brand.
In recent years, his image has become one of the strongest in Latin sports.
Especially among the Hispanic community living in the United States, where his fights tend to generate large audiences and consumption.
In that context, accepting an ambassadorial role without direct financial compensation could mean, for him, a high-level promotional use without the agreement he considers appropriate.
For some, this position is a legitimate negotiation.
For others, a topic that opens the discussion on patriotism, public image and sports business.
The reason would have a financial background
QuéOnnda.com
Surprising absences
The text mentions that not only Canelo was missing.
There was also surprise because names such as Javier “Chicharito” Hernández, Lorena Ochoa or Sergio “Checo” Pérez, figures with enormous media weight, did not appear.
Finally, the list focused on idols linked to Chivas, national teams and outstanding athletes.
List of ambassadors announced in Guadalajara
Among the 24 names submitted are:
Andrés Guardado, Benjamín Galindo, Oswaldo Sánchez, Ramón Morales, Carlos Salcido, Adolfo “Bofo” Bautista, Pavel Pardo, Haideé Aceves and Alejandra Orozco, among others.
What does this mean for the 2026 World Cup?
Canelo’s absence is evidence of how major sporting events are also played out off the field:
Image, agreements and strategies.
Guadalajara is preparing to once again host the World Cup, recalling tournaments such as 1970 and 1986.
Although Canelo is not on the roster, the challenge for the ambassadors will be to drive local interest and maintain enthusiasm for the tournament.
For more information, visit QuéOnnda.com.
