Mexico's World Cup campaign has been hit by an off-field controversy after the team was forced to return $1million (£747,000) worth of Rolex watches gifted by American YouTuber Stevewilldoit.
The content creator, whose real name is Stephen Deleonardis, presented the luxury timepieces to the Mexico squad and staff when he met them on Monday, the day before the World Cup co-hosts beat Ecuador in the last 32.
However, FIFA's Code of Ethics prohibits the offering and acceptance of such expensive gifts. Article 21 states that gifts can only be offered or accepted if they have "symbolic or trivial value".
A statement on the team's official X account confirmed the watches had been returned "by mutual agreement", adding that Stevewilldoit had gifted them "on his own initiative".
"In line with FIFA regulations, the players and staff have collectively decided to return the watches," the statement read.
The incident comes at a key moment for Mexico, who face England in a high-stakes round of 16 clash at the iconic Azteca Stadium on Sunday evening. Manager Thomas Tuchel's side are looking to reach the quarter-finals for the first time since 1986, and the squad will be keen to keep distractions to a minimum.
Quick Facts
Who: Mexico national team and staff
What: Returned $1m worth of Rolex watches
Why: FIFA Code of Ethics prohibits expensive gifts
When: Ahead of Round of 16 match against England
Key Takeaways
- YouTuber Stevewilldoit gifted Rolex watches worth $1m to the entire Mexico squad and staff.
- FIFA rules require gifts to have only "symbolic or trivial value", forcing the return.
- Mexico face England in the World Cup last-16, hoping to avoid off-field controversy.
- The players returned the watches "by mutual agreement" to comply with regulations.
