Javier “Chicharito” Hernandez, the former Manchester United and Mexico national team striker, has come under fire after making sexist remarks on social media, leading to disciplinary action from the Mexican Football Federation (FMF).
The 37-year-old forward, who currently plays for Liga MX club Chivas, posted videos on TikTok that the FMF said “promote sexist stereotypes deemed as media violence and contradict gender equality in sports.” In the now-viral clips, Hernandez claimed women are “failing” and “eradicating masculinity,” and urged them “not to be afraid to be women” or to “allow yourselves to be led by a man.” The remarks triggered immediate outrage across Mexico, especially in the wake of the country’s historic election of its first female president, Claudia Sheinbaum.
President Sheinbaum responded publicly, stating, “Chicharito is a very good soccer player, but he still has much to learn regarding his views on women.” Her comments echoed growing sentiment online, where fans and social media users condemned Hernandez’s words as outdated and harmful.
In response to the controversy, the FMF issued a fine and formal warning to Hernandez, emphasizing that any repeat offenses would attract harsher sanctions. The governing body, alongside the country’s top men’s and women’s leagues, confirmed that its Gender and Diversity Commission has launched a broader investigation to crack down on sexist behavior in sports.
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Hernandez’s club, Chivas, also distanced itself from his remarks, describing them as “contrary to the principles and values of the institution.” Although the club did not detail the internal measures taken, it confirmed that “appropriate action” had been initiated.
Hernandez remains one of Mexico’s most iconic footballers, having scored more goals for the national team than any other player. He made headlines in 2010 when he signed with Manchester United, where he won two Premier League titles before going on to play for global clubs including Real Madrid, Bayer Leverkusen, West Ham, Sevilla, and LA Galaxy. In 2023, he returned to his boyhood club Chivas on a two-year deal, hoping to cap off a celebrated career in his home country.
Now, that legacy faces a serious challenge as public and institutional pressure mounts over his recent comments. The scandal has sparked renewed debate about misogyny in sports culture and the responsibility of high-profile athletes to promote equality and respect both on and off the pitch.
