On Monday, U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio praised the "Cuban connections" featured in the college football championship between Miami and Indiana, held at Hard Rock Stadium. He emphasized the backgrounds and journeys of two key figures: coach Mario Cristóbal and quarterback Fernando Mendoza.
In a conversation with journalist Clay Travis, Rubio described the championship as a "storybook setting," highlighting that both central figures share Cuban roots and ties to Miami.
"Fernando, Indiana's quarterback, moves in the same circles as my son, and I've known Mario for 25 years. It's a dreamlike story in Miami with these two connections," the Secretary of State remarked prior to the game's commencement.
The atmosphere in the stadium was further charged with symbolism when the crowd applauded President Donald Trump, who attended the game with two of his grandchildren.
The college championship has garnered particular attention in South Florida, where the Cuban community is celebrating the unprecedented matchup between Mario Cristóbal, coach of the Miami Hurricanes and son of exiles, and Fernando Mendoza, Indiana's quarterback and the first Cuban American to win the Heisman Trophy.
According to Rubio and other local leaders, both exemplify "the hard work, discipline, and belief in freedom" that characterize Cuban families who arrived in the United States seeking a fresh start.
Cuban Heritage in American Football
Who are the key Cuban figures in the Miami vs. Indiana game?
The key Cuban figures are Mario Cristóbal, coach of the Miami Hurricanes, and Fernando Mendoza, quarterback of Indiana.
Why is the Miami championship game significant for the Cuban community?
The game is significant because it features prominent Cuban American figures and represents the values of hard work and freedom cherished by Cuban exiles in the U.S.