Hames Rodriguez criticizes FIFA's ruling on Club León

Hames Rodriguez, captain of Mexican team Leon, is urging FIFA to reconsider its decision to expel the team from the Club World Cup. Leon was disqualified due to dual ownership rules. Rodriguez called the ruling "a great injustice" and a blemish on football. Fans have already purchased tickets and incurred debt to attend the tournament. Rodriguez expressed frustration over the situation, stating that fans shouldn't be punished for the club's ownership structure, which has existed for years. Leon’s owner plans to appeal the decision to the Court of Arbitration for Sport next month. Coach Eduardo Brizo believes they have the right to compete, insisting they broke no rules. FIFA has not announced a replacement team yet, but Alajuelense from Costa Rica has expressed interest in stepping in. Players from Leon criticized the ruling, suggesting it unfairly targets their club while similar situations exist elsewhere in Mexican football.