Chetumal, Quintana Roo — Governor Mara Lezama Espinosa inaugurated the State School Soccer Cup “Mundialito 2026” on Tuesday, a tournament featuring 548 students from 22 elementary schools, 22 middle schools, and six high schools across the state.
The competition, held at the “La Charca” sports complex in the state capital, runs from May 5 to 7. Teams from all 11 municipalities are participating in both boys’ and girls’ divisions.
Earlier, from March 13 to 20, a municipal phase involved 25,148 students from 1,131 schools — 708 elementary, 265 middle, and 158 high schools.
“It is an honor to accompany you on this significant day for school sports,” Lezama said during the opening ceremony. “I recognize the effort, dedication, and commitment that have made the Mundialito 2026 possible. It will bring great benefits to our community.”
Education Secretary Elda Xix Euán added: “In this tournament, friendships are built, communities are strengthened, and we reaffirm that education goes beyond the classroom. We want every student to know that we believe in them, that their effort is worthwhile, and that every step on the field is also a step toward their personal and integral development.”
The event is part of the New Agreement for the Well-being and Development of Quintana Roo promoted by Lezama, which encourages healthy lifestyles and comprehensive education for children and youth.
The tournament is linked to the 2026 FIFA World Cup, aiming to boost enthusiasm for sports as a tool for social and educational development.
The national stage will take place in Jalisco from May 25 to 30.
Also attending the ceremony were DIF honorary president Verónica Lezama; student representatives Naomi Sofía Chí Cetina and Bryan Durán de la O.; Magistrate Wendy Fabiola Barrera Ucán; Legislative Secretary General Lirio Calderón González; CODEQ President Jacobo Arzate Hop; and Othón P. Blanco Municipal Secretary General Luis Gamero.
