Football returns to Veracruz

Soccer is about to pulse through the heart of Veracruz once again. After more than six years without a professional team following the disbandment of the Tiburones Rojos in 2019, the iconic Estadio Luis ‘Pirata’ Fuente is preparing for its revival.

According to multiple sources, the historic venue will host an international four-team tournament from July 2 to July 6 - marking a fresh beginning for soccer in the port city.

Press conference called

The countdown is on for the long-awaited return of professional soccer to Veracruz. Latam Sport Connect, the tournament’s organizing company, has confirmed that on Tuesday, May 13, a press conference has been scheduled to reveal details of an international four-team competition featuring renowned clubs from across the Americas.

Expected participants include Cruz Azul (Mexico), Newell’s Old Boys (Argentina), and Once Caldas (Colombia). Additionally, the Liga de Expansión MX may contribute the fourth team, with Venados de Mérida reportedly in contention. However, final confirmations are still pending.

The tournament’s official presentation will take place on Tuesday, May 13, 2025, at 12:00 PM (EST) at Plaza Matarraya, located within Estadio Luis ‘Pirata’ Fuente in Veracruz’s Virginia district. At the press conference, organizers are expected to reveal the match schedule and tournament format.

The Legacy of Estadio Luis ‘Pirata’ Fuente

A monument to Veracruz’s undying soccer passion, Estadio Luis ‘Pirata’ Fuente has stood as a silent witness to generations of fans. Originally inaugurated in 1967 as Estadio Veracruzano, the venue was renamed on May 22, 1981, in honor of Luis de la Fuente y Hoyos, affectionately known as “El Pirata”—a true legend of Mexican soccer.

Born in Veracruz on January 17, 1914, El Pirata became Mexico’s first player to compete in Europe when he signed with Racing Santander in 1934. His distinguished career spanned both Mexico and Argentina, but he left his most lasting mark with the Tiburones Rojos de Veracruz, guiding the team to two Primera División titles in 1945-46 and 1949-50.

De la Fuente y Hoyos passed away on May 28, 1972, but his influence continues to shape the history of soccer in Veracruz. Now, with this tournament set to restore the city’s soccer heartbeat, his legacy will live on in every match played at the historic stadium that bears his name.

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