During Hispanic Heritage Week in late September 2026, the Chicago Bears welcomed El Mariachi Herencia de México to Soldier Field to perform the United States national anthem ahead of a Monday Night Football matchup against the Philadelphia Eagles, Infobae reported.
The performance, which featured traditional trumpets and violins in place of a conventional vocal or instrumental arrangement, aimed to highlight Mexican culture during a prominent NFL broadcast. However, the musical tribute quickly drew online backlash, prompting a public response from members of the ensemble regarding the nature of the reception.
Performance at Soldier Field
The appearance took place on Monday, September 28, 2026, at Soldier Field in Chicago, Illinois. Prior to the Week 3 kickoff between the Chicago Bears and the Philadelphia Eagles, El Mariachi Herencia de México took the field to perform “The Star-Spangled Banner.”
Alonso Orozco Jr., a musician with the group, stated before the performance that playing the anthem in Chicago—the city where the band originated—would be a meaningful moment for the ensemble. The group, which was formed by young musicians preserving traditional mariachi styles from Guadalajara and Mexico City with contemporary arrangements, received two Latin Grammy nominations prior to their NFL appearance.
Alonso Orozco Jr. Reports Racist Criticism After Anthem Performance
Following the televised performance, Alonso Orozco Jr. reported on social media that the group encountered a wave of negative online commentary and racist criticism directed at their rendition of the anthem. In a post on X, he described the experience of performing with respect for the United States while expressing disappointment at the subsequent public reaction.
Tuvimos la oportunidad de interpretar el himno nacional de los Estados Unidos para el partido de la NFL entre los Chicago Bears y los Eagles, y fue increíble hacerlo con amor y respeto por una gran nación. Sin embargo, ha surgido una enorme ola de críticas racistas,
Orozco wrote, according to Infobae’s reporting of his statements.
Orozco added that representing Mexican roots while showing respect for the symbols of the country where they work should not serve as a catalyst for hostility, emphasizing that music operates without borders. Supporters of the ensemble subsequently responded on social media with messages defending the performance and praising the group’s execution of the anthem.
Cultural Showcases Across the League
The performance by El Mariachi Herencia de México formed part of a broader series of Hispanic Heritage Month celebrations implemented across various NFL franchises during the 2026 season. Days prior to the Chicago game, the Mariachi Monumental de México performed “The Star-Spangled Banner” ahead of a matchup between the Green Bay Packers and the Atlanta Falcons at Lambeau Field.
