Puebla, Mexico is on the verge of a significant change in its soccer landscape, as Club Puebla, currently owned by TV Azteca, is set to be sold due to a series of poor performances and administrative challenges. The sale, which could be finalized by the end of the Clausura 2025 tournament, represents a pivotal moment for the franchise, which has struggled both on and off the field in recent years.
On February 21, 2025, during a matchday 8 game at the Estadio Cuauhtemoc, Emiliano Gomez of Puebla celebrated after scoring the first goal of the match, a brief highlight in a season filled with disappointments. The team, known as La Franja, has found itself at the bottom of the Liga MX standings, prompting discussions about its future.
Grupo Salinas, which owns Club Puebla, has cited poor sports results and mismanagement as key reasons for the impending sale. The club's ongoing issues with multi-ownership have also raised concerns, particularly in light of recent FIFA regulations aimed at eliminating such practices from soccer. Currently, eight of the 18 Liga MX teams are involved in multi-ownership, a situation that has led to complications for clubs like Club León, which was barred from participating in the Club World Cup due to its ties with Grupo Pachuca.
TV Azteca's decision to sell the team comes at a time when it also owns Mazatlán FC, another struggling franchise in Liga MX. Both clubs are facing the possibility of fines for their poor standings, which could lead to significant financial repercussions for the media conglomerate. To mitigate these losses, the network is looking to offload Club Puebla.
Reports indicate that several local businesses are interested in acquiring the team. According to sources, negotiations have been ongoing since late February, with an initial fixed price set by TV Azteca that was deemed too high. However, a counteroffer from a group of investors has sparked renewed interest from the broadcaster.
These potential buyers are reportedly committed to keeping the franchise in Puebla, and they have even gained preliminary approval from the state government to proceed with the acquisition. The sale is expected to be a total one, allowing TV Azteca to alleviate some of its financial burdens, particularly in light of the fines it may incur due to the teams' standings.
As the situation unfolds, the involvement of real estate company Fibra has also been noted, as they are considered to be among the most advanced bidders for the team. Their interest, along with that of other local entrepreneurs, reflects a broader desire within the community to see the team succeed and remain in the city.
While the future of Club Puebla remains uncertain, the urgency surrounding its sale is palpable. The club's struggles on the field have been mirrored by its administrative challenges, and a change in ownership could provide the fresh start needed to revitalize the franchise. As negotiations progress, many in Puebla are hopeful that a new era for La Franja is on the horizon.
The potential sale of Club Puebla is not just about a change in ownership; it represents a critical juncture for the club and its supporters. With the right leadership and vision, there is optimism that the team can overcome its current difficulties and return to a position of competitiveness within Liga MX.
In the coming weeks, all eyes will be on the negotiations as they unfold, with fans eagerly awaiting news of the club's future. Whether the sale goes through or not, the discussions surrounding Club Puebla highlight the complexities and challenges faced by teams in the modern soccer landscape.
As the Liga MX season progresses, the fate of Club Puebla will undoubtedly remain a topic of conversation among fans and analysts alike. The hope is that whatever the outcome, it leads to a brighter future for a club with a rich history and passionate fan base.
