Deportivo Toluca FC surprised fans this weekend with a public gesture of closeness towards one of Mexican sports television's most recognizable figures. The club used its official X account to wish commentator Christian Martinoli a happy 51st birthday.
The message, posted on October 15, blended French and Spanish: 'Joyeux anniversaire, @martinolimx. Qué viva el #ChorizoPower'. The use of French was a nod to the broadcaster's European heritage, as Martinoli was born in Argentina. He is a well-known self-declared supporter of the Diablos Rojos, and the greeting referenced the popular fan slogan.
Mixed reactions
The post quickly gathered hundreds of replies, dividing followers. Several users praised the commentator, with messages like 'Feliz diablo, @martinolimx Tus narraciones, podcasts y entrevistas; me dan vida' and 'Felicidades en tu diablo que cumplas muchos años más y arriba el chorizo power'. Others, however, used the opportunity to critique his work behind the microphone. "Se le olvida que es del rojo cuando juega Tigres," wrote one fan, suggesting Martinoli tones down his criticism of Tigres due to TV Azteca's broadcast rights.
For now, the commentator has not responded to the birthday wishes from the choricero squad. He also hasn't posted anything on his personal social media referencing his anniversary. Toluca's gesture comes during a intense sporting period for the team, which sits second in Liga MX with 20 points from 11 games, just one point behind leaders Club America.
Immediate sporting context
The club prepares for its next home fixture against Atlético San Luis on October 18, looking to bounce back from a patchy run of form. Their last five matches show one win, one draw, and three defeats. The most recent was a 3-2 loss to Tigres UANL on October 10, a game where goals from Paulinho and Fernando Viñas proved insufficient.
With manager Antonio 'Turco' Mohamed in charge, the immediate goal is to take three points against San Luis to stay in the title race. Uruguayan forward Fernando Viñas, with five goals in eight appearances, will be a key piece in that pursuit. Wednesday's match represents a clear opportunity to correct course before the next break in the competition.
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