Host City CDMX Expresses Concern Over World Cup 2026 Piracy in Mexico
Mexico City, May 24 – Host City CDMX, the organizing committee for the 2026 FIFA World Cup in Mexico City, has expressed serious concern over the rampant piracy of products and services related to the upcoming tournament. Félix Aguirre Gil, the manager of Host City CDMX, highlighted the issue in a letter addressed to César Iván Escalante, the federal consumer prosecutor in Mexico City.
Aguirre Gil stated that piracy in Mexico, encompassing brands, designs, images, music, and even television broadcast rights, is a “very serious problem due to the economic damage it generates and the vulnerability it creates for the well-being of many affected people.” The World Cup is set to kick off on June 11, 2026.
Illegal Streaming Platforms and Counterfeit Merchandise
The Host City manager specifically pointed out violations of broadcast rights by various digital platforms that illegally offer coverage of the upcoming World Cup matches. He listed platforms such as KaelusTV, ThunderTV, Telelatino, Sunset TV, and PopTV, among others, noting that each operates with numerous fraudulent domains.
In April, the Mexican Institute of Industrial Property reported conducting 21 anti-piracy operations, resulting in the seizure of at least 25 tons of counterfeit merchandise. This merchandise, primarily from China, included items from various football teams and was valued at several thousand dollars.
Aguirre Gil emphasized that these illegal providers not only cause economic harm but also expose potential consumers to significant risks regarding the use of their personal information. “Attached to this letter you will find evidence of the different ways in which these providers attract potential consumers and leave them in a complete state of vulnerability regarding the use of their information,” he added.
Economic Impact on Mexican Families
The Host City CDMX manager concluded his statement by warning that the widespread piracy could “significantly worsen in the context of the FIFA World Cup 2026, unfairly and irreversibly affecting the economic well-being of Mexican families.”
Host City Mexico City is responsible for managing the overall World Cup experience outside the stadiums, including events like the FIFA Fan Fest. The committee aims to ensure a legitimate and enjoyable experience for all fans while protecting the rights of official partners and broadcasters.
The concern raised by Host City CDMX underscores the ongoing battle against intellectual property infringement in Mexico, particularly as major international events approach. Authorities continue to grapple with the challenge of enforcing copyright and trademark laws against a sophisticated network of counterfeiters and illegal streaming services.
The letter to the federal consumer prosecutor is expected to prompt further action from regulatory bodies to combat piracy ahead of the global football spectacle. The economic stakes are high, with legitimate businesses and the broader Mexican economy standing to lose substantial revenue if piracy remains unchecked.
Source: lopezdoriga.com
