18 • May | June 2026 • abasto.com “Soccer is not just a sport for our fami- lies — it represents memories, iden- tity and pride,” said Oscar González, Co-President of Northgate González Market. “Familia Fútbol celebrates this historic World Cup moment through the food, traditions and values that de- fine our community.” The campaign features a power- ful roster of Mexican cultural icons and sports legends, including boxing champion Julio César Chávez, legen- dary goalkeeper Jorge Campos, lu- chador El Hijo del Santo and beloved entertainer Angélica María. Represen- ting the next generation is Mexican women’s national team star Scarlett Camberos. Additional soccer legends participating include Paco Palencia, Claudio Suárez, Ramón Morales, Brau- lio Luna, Francisco “Maza” Rodríguez and Carlos Hermosillo. The immersive launch event was hosted by former Mexican national team player Mariano Trujillo and sports journalist and digital creator Li- vette Ruvalcaba. Guests experienced curated memorabilia, live entertain- ment featuring soccer freestylers and mariachi, and interactive moments with campaign talent. Northgate Market will bring game-day flavors to life throughout the tournament, offering freshly marinated carne asada, handmade guacamole, aguas frescas, botanas and ready-to-serve party trays designed to help families celebrate matches at home. Upcoming Familia Fútbol activa- tions across Southern California inclu- de fan fests, youth soccer clinics, meet- and-greet events with cultural icons, a Mother’s Day sweepstakes and World Cup Final viewing celebrations. The power of Futbol for Hispanics BY VIOLETA MONTES DE OCA N orthgate González Market launched Familia Fútbol, a sweeping World Cup 2026 campaign celebrating the culture, food, and passion for soccer that unite Latino families across gene- rations. The March 18 launch event at the historic Yost Theater in Santa Ana marked the ceremonial kicko- ff of a community-wide celebration that will continue through the FIFA World Cup Final in June 2026. The “Familia Fútbol” campaign ho- nors both the families we are born into and those we choose—the commu- nities that gather to cheer, celebrate, and share a table. As Mexico kicks off the tournament at the legendary Esta- dio Banorte (formerly Estadio Azteca), Northgate González Market is positio- ning itself as the ultimate cultural hub for World Cup celebrations across Sou- thern California. 18 • May | June 2026 • abasto.com Northgate González Market “Familia Fútbol” for 2026 World Cup • IN THE NEWS