The Mexican national football team has returned luxury Rolex watches valued at approximately $1 million to American influencer Stephen Deleonardis to avoid violating FIFA regulations.
Deleonardis, known online as SteveWillDoIt, gifted the watches to players and staff on his own initiative after winning a $2 million bet on Mexico's victory over Ecuador.
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The Mexican Football Federation intervened to enforce compliance with international football rules, as retaining the items could have led to heavy fines or suspensions during the ongoing tournament.
According to Article 20 of the FIFA Code of Ethics, football figures are strictly prohibited from accepting high-value gifts.
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Only presents of symbolic or trivial value are permitted.
The federation announced on social media that the luxury timepieces were returned to Deleonardis through a mutual agreement.
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Following the resolution, the undefeated Mexican squad shifted its focus to their upcoming knockout match against England.
