Mexico narrowly avoid FIFA sanction with last-minute decision before England clash as statement released

Mexico have narrowly avoided a sanction by FIFA just hours before they take on England in the round of 16.

El Tri host England in high altitude conditions at the Azteca Stadium, a ground about 7,000 ft above sea level where they have a formidable record in competitive fixtures.

After reports that the kick-off time was set to be given a drastic change and concerns expressed by both teams, it was then confirmed that the game would get underway at 6pm local time and 1am UK time as planned.

Much of the build-up has centered on England's preparations and the fact that their hotel has a 'ring of steel' around it - with an enormous police presence to prevent Mexico supporters from causing the kind of chaos which brought a complaint from Ecuador's FA last time.

But Mexico's build-up to the fixture has been interesting as they escaped a punishment from FIFA for violating a strict policy imposed by the world governing body.

READ MORE: England v Mexico prediction and preview: World Cup reaches boiling point for expectant fans

Influencer and internet personality SteveWillDoIt, real name Stephen Rocco Deleonardi, placed a $2 million bet on Mexico beating Ecuador to qualify to the round of 16 and raked in huge winnings of $1.2 million after they won 2-0.

To show his appreciation to the Mexico national team, he decided to treat the players to Rolex watches and produced a video on YouTube about it.

Every player was gifted with the luxury timepiece, with images circulating on social media. Taking to Instagram, he wrote: "I gave every single player/ staff on Mexico team an expensive watch .. this was before they dominated Ecuador!!! How confident I was. BOOOOOOOOM. New YouTube video 8:30 eastern!! I love u guys. I love you Mexico . I love you Mexican football team. BOOM ."

Mexico risked FIFA punishment after accepting expensive gifts

However, Mexican Football Federation announced a u-turn on the receiving of the lavish gifts and said the players mutually agreed to a return.

A statement posted on X said: "The SNM reports that by mutual agreement, our players decided to return to the content creator, @stevewilldoit, the watches that he had gifted them on his own initiative."

Mexico stars handed the watches back as in accepting the gifts, they had violated Article 20 of FIFA's Code of Ethics.

There were also suggestions that they could not keep the watches because of a sponsorship deal with Hublot, another watch brand.

FIFA rules state that players and officials are not allowed to accept high-value gifts or benefits in any capacity and had they not returned the watches, they could have been punished through fines or even suspension from playing.

According to FIFA licensed agent Joseph Adamfio, the rule "ensures that football professionals—such as officials, agents, executives, and others—do not give or receive gifts or benefits that could unfairly influence their decisions. FIFA wants to prevent bribery and corruption while maintaining fairness in football".

He added that simple souvenirs are allowed but not large or expensive gifts are banned.

The code states that, "if in doubt, gifts shall not be offered or accepted".

In the past, presidents and officials involved in organisations have been banned because they accepted expensive presents.

Mexico have won all four of their games at the 2026 World Cup and are yet to concede at the tournament. The winner of the clash will play either Brazil or Norway, who lock horns at the MetLife Stadium in New Jersey hours before.