Just months before Mexico is set to return to the center of international football with the 2026 FIFA World Cup, the Mexican Football Federation confirmed the death of Rafael del Castillo, who presided over the organization during the 1980s and was at the helm during one of the most decisive periods for Mexican football.

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The news was released by the federation itself through an institutional message in which he recalled his tenure between 1980 and 1988. “The Mexican Football Federation regrets the passing of Rafael del Castillo, former president of the FMF 1980-1988, whose work and dedication left an important mark on Mexican football. We extend our most sincere condolences to his family, friends, and loved ones,” the statement said.

Del Castillo led what was then known as Femexfut during years marked by structural changes and decisions that directly impacted the organization of the sport in the country. During his administration, administrative modernization processes were promoted and structures oriented towards talent development were strengthened. One of the most memorable chapters of his tenure was the organization of the 1986 World Cup. Mexico hosted the tournament, which was won by Argentina, with Diego Maradona as the central figure of the competition. The celebration of that World Cup consolidated the country as a host capable of organizing events of global reach. Legacy, Recognitions, and Controversial Episodes: Rafael del Castillo's career also included moments of controversy. Among the most notable episodes of his time at the head of the federation was the case of the so-called "Cachirules" in 1988, an issue that generated a strong impact on the Mexican football community. On February 12, weeks before his death, the federation, headed by Ivar Sisniega, paid him a tribute while he was still alive. At that ceremony, Mikel Arriola, president of Liga MX and commissioner of the FMF,He defined him as a “key figure in our country hosting a second World Cup, Mexico 86” and highlighted the social and cultural vision he brought to the management of Mexican soccer. Arriola again expressed his condolences after learning the news,joining the expressions of sadness directed to the family and friends of the former executive. The death of Rafael del Castillo comes 100 days before the start of the 2026 World Cup, a context that once again places in the collective memory his role in the organization of the tournament held four decades ago.