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During the Pumas vs Guadalajara match at the Estadio Akron on Sunday, September 13, social media users pointed out Ecuadorian player Pedro Vite for allegedly disrespecting the Mexican National Anthem.
The midfielder for the Felinos was called out for turning his back on the flag and performing warm-up exercises during the pre-match ceremony.
The situation caused annoyance among Mexican fans, who demanded his expulsion from the university team and asserted that he should "respect" the country that "feeds him."
But what really happened and are Pumas considering sanctioning the player? This is what is known.
Pedro Vite, singled out for allegedly ignoring the Mexican National Anthem
A video is circulating on social media in which Pedro Vite is seen allegedly ignoring the Mexican national anthem during the pre-match ceremony for Pumas vs. Guadalajara, corresponding to Matchday 8 of the 2026 Liga MX Apertura.
According to social media users, the Ecuadorian footballer broke the line, turned his back on the Mexican flag, and began performing warm-up and stretching exercises while the national anthem was being played.
Will Pedro Vite receive a sanction from Pumas?
Following the controversy, social media users demanded that Pumas expel the Ecuadorian player. His Instagram account even received comments from fans demanding that he respect the anthem of the country that "feeds him" and suggesting that his attitude was due to him still being upset over Mexico's win against Ecuador in the 2026 World Cup.
But will the club take any action?
According to information from Récord, the incident did not go unnoticed by the leadership of the Felino team. However, before passing judgment, they will seek to hear the player's explanation.
The outlet also notes that people close to Pedro Vite have described him as a person who is respectful toward his teammates and the country.
Therefore, Pumas would seek to speak with the Ecuadorian footballer first before taking disciplinary measures, should they be warranted.
Who is Pedro Vite, a Pumas player?
Pedro Vite is an Ecuadorian footballer who joined Pumas in 2025. Before arriving at the university team, he played for Independiente del Valle, Independiente Juniors, both clubs in Ecuador, and the Vancouver Whitecaps F.C.
He has also been part of the Ecuador National Team in the U-17, U-20, U-23, and senior categories since 2023. With the U-17 team, he played in the 2019 World Cup in Brazil, according to the biography published on Pumas' official website. Additionally, he participated with the senior team in the 2026 World Cup.
His contract with the Felinos was reported to be nearly 7 million dollars and would run until 2029.
[Publicidad]