Xavier ‘Chicharito’ Hernández, the Chivas striker, is currently facing significant public scrutiny due to a series of controversial videos he shared on social media. In these clips, he controversially asserts that women are responsible for promoting fragile masculinity and accuses them of failing in their traditional roles as housewives.
These remarks have drawn widespread condemnation from feminist groups, public figures, and even high-profile politicians, including President Claudia Sheinbaum. As reports emerge from the sports press, it appears that Hernández’s statements have disrupted the unity at the Verde Valle High-Performance Center, where both the Chivas men’s and women’s teams train.
Although no athletes have publicly expressed their concerns regarding Hernández’s remarks, reports indicate that team management has met with him over the issue, although they did not impose any formal sanctions. The lack of decisive action has raised questions regarding accountability within the squad.
Adding to the contentious atmosphere, Luis Castillejo, known as The Temach, recently launched a scathing critique against the women’s team during a live broadcast on YouTube. This statement adds yet another layer of complexity to the ongoing debate.
Castillejo is part of a generation of content creators who have heavily influenced public opinion regarding masculinity and women’s roles. His conservative ideologies suggest that women should return to traditional roles, further igniting debates on social media platforms.
In his defense of Chicharito, Castillejo vehemently argued that the player should not face any disciplinary actions for expressing his views online. He labeled the calls for punishment as a form of *intolerance* instead of constructive criticism.
However, the most provocative moment in Castillejo’s broadcast came when he criticized the Chivas women’s team, stating: “Do me the cabr please, the morras of the Chivas complaining about Chicharito when it sells more than all women’s soccer players combined.”
He continued by asserting that terminating Chicharito’s contract would be nonsensical, arguing that women’s salaries are often funded by the revenue generated through male players and their popularity. He stated: “Please give it to Chicharito. Their salaries are paid by the tickets sold by men, their salaries are paid by the sponsorships generated by men.”
Shortly after the video was uploaded, it garnered over 63,000 views , sparking a heated debate. Critics argue that his comments perpetuate a prevailing culture of machismo in the country and highlight ongoing challenges in achieving salary equality for professional athletes.
The controversy surrounding Chicharito Hernández’s remarks reflects a broader societal dialogue about gender roles and masculinity in contemporary Mexico. As discussions continue, they serve as a reminder of the persistent challenges advocates face in addressing gender equality within sports and society at large.