Why are fans in Mexico supporting Sunderland?
- Published
Sunderland's return to the Premier League did not go unnoticed… especially in Mexico.
Fans on Wearside were perplexed to find out that their 3-0 victory against West Ham was celebrated as much in Yucatan as it was at the Stadium of Light.
The number of people searching 'Sunderland' in Mexico has seen a 700% increase in the last seven days compared to the previous 12 months.
Confused? There is no obvious connection to the club. No Mexican has ever played for them, they are owned by a Frenchman, and their main sponsor is an Asian betting partner.
The phenomenon can be explained by a popular Mexican football fan account on X, formerly Twitter, throwing their support behind the Black Cats.
"Twitter Mexico is getting together to support a random European team this season to throw fans off when they see Mexicans cheering for them. The chosen team is Sunderland," they said in a post.
"This season all of Mexico is with Sunderland."
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Hola, Mexico!
So how has the club reacted to its new fame in North America? They welcomed it.
In a social media post, the club responded: "Hola, Mexico. We're proud to have your passion with us this season - Ha'way the Lads!"
They were subsequently inundated with replies from adopted Mexican Mackems.
One said: "We needed a Premier League team to support and we have chosen the Black Cats."
"Long live Sunderland. We've arrived and we're not leaving," said another.
This article is the latest from BBC Sport's Ask Me Anything team.
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