‘Chicharito’ fined and warned for sexist comments

July 24 – Former Manchester United and Mexico national team striker Javier ‘Chicharito’ Hernández has been fined and formally warned by the Mexican Football Federation (FMF) after making a series of sexist comments on social media. 

Hernández, now playing for Liga MX side Chivas Guadalajara, came under fire following a TikTok video in which he claimed women are “failing” and are “eradicating masculinity.” The 37-year-old also told women “don’t be afraid to be women, to allow yourselves to be led by a man” – remarks that the FMF deemed to be promoting “sexist stereotypes” and classified as “media violence” in direct violation of the federation’s standards on gender equality in sport. 

The value of the fine has not been disclosed, but his reputation has taken a serious knock. 

The backlash was swift and wide-reaching, particularly in a country navigating a new chapter in gender politics after the election of President Claudia Sheinbaum, the first woman to hold the office. Responding to Hernández’s remarks, Sheinbaum said: “Chicharito is a very good football player, but when it comes to his opinion on women… he still has a lot to learn.” 

In a joint statement, the FMF, Liga MX, and the Liga MX Femenil said the comments had triggered an investigation by their Gender and Diversity Commission. The governing bodies reiterated their commitment to enforcing codes of conduct that promote inclusivity and warned that “more severe measures” will be taken should Hernández repeat such behaviour. 

Chivas, who have Chicharito on the books for another 5 months, have distanced themselves from his post, stating they were “contrary to the principles and values” of the institution. The club said it had taken “appropriate action,” though it did not disclose specific disciplinary measures. 

Hernández, one of Mexico’s most decorated players and the national team’s all-time leading goal scorer, has yet to issue a public apology. The controversy comes at a sensitive time for Mexican football, as efforts to promote women’s football and gender equity have accelerated at both domestic and federation levels. 

Contact the writer of this story, Harry Ewing, at moc.l1753354358labto1753354358ofdlr1753354358owedi1753354358sni@g1753354358niwe.1753354358yrrah1753354358