Benito Juárez Mayor closes Ciudad de los Deportes; América vs Pachuca to be played behind closed doors, sparking clash over motives
The mayor of Benito Juárez, Luis Mendoza Acevedo, announced on Friday the closure of Estadio Ciudad de los Deportes, meaning the América vs Pachuca match in Liga MX will be held without spectators. The decision drew sharp criticism from media analyst David Faitelson, who argued on X (formerly Twitter) that the move was not about football governance but about the mayor seeking the spotlight and access he believed he was denied.
Faitelson, a TUDN columnist, wrote that the decision does not reflect excessive authority by the club near the stadium, but rather “a desire for protagonism” by the mayor, claiming Mendoza had been deprived of luxury boxes and other perks for the game. He added that the mayor’s actions aim to dominate the narrative around the league and the team.
The report prompted a suggestion from the club and fans that América reconsider the venue, with Querétaro floated as a potential alternative in light of the closure.
In response, Luis Mendoza quickly rejected the accusations, saying he is the one who wants to remain in the background and that his priority is residents’ wellbeing. “Here the only one who wants to be the protagonist is you with your lies,” Mendoza wrote in a reply. He insisted there has been no threat or request as alleged and stressed that he is simply enforcing regulations. “My work is to look after the neighbors and I will continue to do so above any private interest.”
Mendoza also addressed Faitelson in a separate post, labeling the Televisa commentator’s positions as a sellout act and claiming his opinions mislead fans. “Here the only one who wants to be the protagonist is you with your lies,” the mayor said, contrasting it with his own commitment to the community.
Context and possible implications
– The stadium closure shifts a high-profile Liga MX match to a behind-closed-doors format, impacting fans, broadcasting logistics, and potential revenue considerations tied to gameday attendance.
– The option of moving venues to Querétaro has been floated, signaling potential flexibility from América if a change of venue becomes necessary.
– The dispute highlights ongoing tensions between local authorities and sports franchises over facilities and access, with the mayor emphasizing resident protection and regulatory compliance.
Summary
– Estadio Ciudad de los Deportes will be closed to spectators for the América–Pachuca game. The move drew criticism from David Faitelson, who accused the mayor of promoting himself at the expense of the league. Mendoza rejected the accusations, insisting his actions protect neighbors and adhere to regulations, while calling Faitelson “vendido” to Televisa.
Additional notes
– If the situation evolves, expect updates on whether a venue change is finalized and how Liga MX and the broadcasters adapt to a closed-doors match.
– The dispute may prompt broader discussions about stadium governance, community impact, and how leagues balance fan access with local municipal requirements.
Positive angle
– The focus on neighbor protection and regulatory compliance could spur constructive dialogue about ensuring safe, family-friendly environments around venues and more transparent processes for future stadium decisions.
Overall assessment
– The article centers on a high-profile local-government decision and a political-media clash around a major sports fixture. It presents both sides and raises questions about venue access, governance, and community impact.