World Cup 2026 cultural controversies spark criticism in Latin America

World Cup 2026 Rosalinda Serfaty Julieta Venegas controversy Venezuela earthquakes

Actress Rosalinda Serfaty, born in Argentina and known for the telenovela "La Revancha," faced intense online criticism for promoting live streams of the 2026 FIFA World Cup after the devastating June 24 earthquakes in Venezuela. She posted a message expressing sympathy for Venezuelans, noting she has family and friends there, and said she continued coverage because her audience voted in favor of it.

Singer Julieta Venegas also became the subject of social‑media backlash after performing the song "La Niña Futbolista" during pre‑World Cup events. She denied rumors that she received a 14 million‑peso payment, stating the project was unpaid and created to celebrate the Day of the Child. Mexico’s President Claudia Sheinbaum clarified the song was never intended as the tournament’s official anthem.

Both incidents illustrate how cultural figures in the region are being scrutinised for their involvement in World Cup‑related activities amid broader social concerns.

Sources

Jessica Alba causa sensación junto a sus hijas en el Mundial 2026 [meridiano.net]

3 days ago

Julieta Venegas niega haber cobrado por “La Niña Futbolista” y aclara la polémica - DIARIO ROATÁN [diarioroatan.com]

4 days ago