Claudia Sheinbaum has invited King Felipe VI to attend the upcoming FIFA World Cup 2026, signaling a potential reset in strained diplomatic relations between Mexico and Spain.
According to Spain’s royal household, Sheinbaum extended the invitation on February 24, highlighting the tournament—co-hosted by Mexico, the United States, and Canada—as an opportunity to reaffirm the “depth and unique character” of bilateral ties rooted in shared history, language, and culture.
The gesture comes amid lingering tensions over Spain’s colonial legacy in the Americas. Relations had cooled significantly after former Mexican president Andrés Manuel López Obrador formally requested an apology from Spain in 2019 for human rights abuses committed during the conquest of the Aztec Empire. The request went unanswered, and Sheinbaum notably did not invite Felipe to her 2024 inauguration.
However, recent remarks by the Spanish monarch appear to have opened the door to reconciliation. During a visit to a cultural exhibition in Madrid, Felipe acknowledged that aspects of Spain’s colonial past involved “a lot of abuse,” adding that such history cannot be viewed with pride by modern standards.
Sheinbaum cautiously welcomed the statement, describing it as a meaningful—if incomplete—step toward reconciliation. “It is not everything we would have wanted, but it is a gesture,” she said, signaling openness to rebuilding diplomatic ties.
The Spanish royal palace confirmed it had “welcomed” the World Cup invitation, though it has not yet confirmed whether the king will attend. A known football enthusiast, Felipe previously attended major tournaments, including the UEFA Euro 2024 final.
The diplomatic outreach comes as Mexico prepares to host millions of visitors for the World Cup. Authorities have intensified security measures, particularly following a surge in violence linked to cartel activity, including unrest after the reported killing of Nemesio Oseguera Cervantes, a key figure in organized crime.
Despite security concerns, Sheinbaum has assured international visitors that there is “no risk” to fans, a stance echoed by Gianni Infantino, who expressed confidence in Mexico’s preparations.
The invitation marks a notable diplomatic shift, with both countries appearing willing to move beyond historical grievances while acknowledging the complexities of their shared past.