Chávez says his devotion began in 1986, when he watched Mexico face the Soviet Union in the capital. His first World Cup match came later that year against Belgium, beginning a tradition that has stretched across decades, continents and generations.
By his account, the latest tournament marks his 543rd match following Mexico. His large black sombrero, with “Caramelo” written across it, has become an instant calling card in stadiums and public spaces.
This time, the story is also a family one. Chávez is travelling alongside his 21-year-old son, Héctor Chávez Jr., who is reportedly attending his fifth World Cup as a supporter. Their matching sombreros turn loyalty into a visible inheritance.
Caramelo’s popularity has not removed the criticism surrounding him. Some supporters have questioned whether the spectacle draws too much attention to the fan himself, while his decision to throw a hat onto the pitch has also irritated sections of the crowd.
His stronger complaint, however, is aimed at the tournament’s rising cost. Chávez says expensive tickets have kept friends and other loyal supporters away from the stadiums. He also believes the atmosphere has suffered, with fewer voices singing for the full 90 minutes and even the traditional Mexican ola becoming harder to organise.
That criticism reaches beyond one supporter’s travel budget. A national team’s identity is built in part by the fans who follow it everywhere, and pricing them out risks weakening the very atmosphere that makes a World Cup memorable.
As Mexico’s campaign continues, the next storyline will be whether Caramelo and his son can keep the tradition alive - and whether the tournament can still make room for the supporters who carried it for generations.