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The Mexican Football Federation fined Javier “Chicharito” Hernández and launched an investigation after he posted videos promoting sexist stereotypes, sparking outrage.
Former Man United striker Chicharito (X)
The Mexican Football Federation (FMF) has fined Javier “Chicharito” Hernández and launched a formal investigation after the striker posted videos on social media that authorities say “promote sexist stereotypes.”
In a joint statement issued Wednesday by the FMF, Liga MX, and Liga MX Femenil, officials said Hernández’s comments violated the organizations’ gender and diversity policies and constituted a form of media violence.
Comments Spark Outrage
Hernández, 37, shared videos on TikTok over the weekend in which he urged women to “let themselves be guided by a man” and accused them of “eradicating masculinity.” He also criticized modern feminist perspectives and claimed society had become “hypersensitive.”
The backlash was swift, with fans, public figures, and politicians condemning the remarks as outdated and sexist.
“He’s a very good footballer, but in terms of his opinion about women, I think he still has a lot to learn, because women can be whatever we want to be,” Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum said during her daily press briefing on Wednesday.
The FMF confirmed that Hernández has received a financial penalty and a formal warning. Officials emphasized that further disciplinary action could follow if similar behavior is repeated.
“A few days ago on the social media platform TikTok, Hernández made statements that promote sexist stereotypes. These are considered media violence and are contrary to gender equality in sport,” the statement read.
“The Gender and Diversity Commission has initiated an investigation to prevent and penalize such conduct. A financial fine and a warning have been imposed on Javier ‘El Chicharito’ Hernández, and the Commission will implement more severe measures in the event of a repeat offense.”
Club and League Distancing Themselves
Chivas Guadalajara, Hernández’s current club, also issued a statement distancing itself from his comments.
“The club has taken the appropriate measures in accordance with its internal regulations,” said the Liga MX side. “As an institution with a strong sense of social responsibility, we firmly reject any behavior, position, or expression that reinforces stereotypes which limit the freedom, respect, and full development of all individuals.”
Hernández, Mexico’s all-time leading goalscorer, returned to his boyhood club Chivas in January 2024 after a career that included stints at Manchester United, West Ham United, Real Madrid, Sevilla, and LA Galaxy.
(with agency inputs)
After training in the field of broadcast media, Siddarth, as a sub-editor for News18 Sports, currently dabbles in putting together stories, from across a plethora of sports, onto a digital canvas. His long-term…Read More
After training in the field of broadcast media, Siddarth, as a sub-editor for News18 Sports, currently dabbles in putting together stories, from across a plethora of sports, onto a digital canvas. His long-term… Read More
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