Full Breakdown
Mexican Trade Group Leader Dismissed After Racist Gesture at World Cup Match
6/14/2026, 6:29:25 AM
Incident Overview
During the live broadcast of South Korea’s 2–0 World Cup win over Czechia on June 13, 2026, Ulises Bernal, president of the College of Topographic and Geomatic Engineers of Jalisco, made a slanted-eye hand gesture toward South Korean influencer Yoon Su-jin, who was livestreaming her celebration. Bernal, wearing the Mexican national team’s away jersey, laughed, performed several hand signs and then executed the racist gesture before leaning back. The clip spread rapidly on X and other platforms, prompting immediate calls for his removal. Within hours, the video went viral, prompting the Honor and Justice Committee to convene and recommend Bernal’s dismissal.
Trade Association Background
The College of Topographic and Geomatic Engineers of Jalisco is a state-appointed body that licenses engineers and often appears at public events to promote national pride.
Official Response
The organization issued a brief statement expressing sorrow and confirmed that its Honor and Justice Committee convened the same day, deciding to terminate Bernal’s tenure as president.
Public Reaction
Social media users condemned the gesture as racist, with many apologizing on behalf of “not all Mexicans.” Some defended it as harmless banter, arguing that teasing is culturally accepted in Mexico. The split response highlights a broader debate over the acceptability of racially charged gestures in public settings. The backlash sparked discussions on platforms about broader issues of racism, with some users calling for stricter codes of conduct for public officials.
Influencer’s Perspective
Yoon Su-jin posted a caption questioning whether she was “too sensitive” after traveling across the globe for the tournament, underscoring the personal impact of the incident on an international visitor.
Conflicting Information
Sources do not indicate any legal penalties beyond Bernal’s removal, nor do they provide a direct comment from Bernal himself; details of the Honor and Justice Committee’s deliberations remain undisclosed.
Verbatim Quotes
- “I came all the way to Mexico for the World Cup, but … am I being too sensitive?” — Yoon Su-jin, South Korean influencer
- “We are deeply saddened by what is happening regarding this incident.” — Spokesperson, College of Topographic and Geomatic Engineers of Jalisco
- “That’s rude, that’s not right! I apologize, not all Mexicans are like that,” — Twitter user
- “That’s just how we are in Mexico. We give everyone nicknames, we make fun of everything, and we love to tease and banter — it’s what makes us happy,” — Twitter user
Implications and Next Steps
The episode illustrates heightened sensitivity to racial symbols in the digital era and raises questions about accountability within Mexican public institutions. Observers will watch whether the College’s credibility is affected and could influence future licensing oversight policies.
