Is Team Mexico jersey in WBC inspired by a popular song? Exploring the tradition behind iconic unofficial anthem

The blue and white Team Mexico jersey worn in their game against Great Britain on Tuesday went viral, making headlines as one of the most controversial uniforms in the World Baseball Classic.

The light blue, white and pink uniforms don’t seem very "Mexican" to some fans' eyes. However, some comments and reactions indicate that there is a deeper meaning to them than what most people think.

According to some Twitter users, the blue details on the Team Mexico jersey represent the sky, alluding to the popular mexican song "Cielito Lindo" or Pretty Sky.

It is a folkloric song that Mexican fans across all sports tend to sing when their national teams and other sports icons take on their rivals. Most notably when Mexico’s soccer national team plays and some stellar boxing matches like Canelo’s.

Exploring the history behind the blue and white Team Mexico jersey

Ironically, although the song was written by Mexican composer Quirino Mendoza y Cortés in 1882, it talks about the love of the singer towards a woman in Spain (taking place in the Sierra Morena, a mountain range located in the south of the Iberian Penninsula).

Regardless, "Cielito Lindo" has become an iconic Mexican song, often interpreted by mariachi bands and famous Mexican singers.

Teammates Giovanni Gallegos and Alexis Wilson after defeating team Great Britain in the WBC

Team Mexico recently beat their counterparts Great Britain in what was their third game of Pool C in the World Baseball Classic in a close 2-1 game. They will be taking on Canada today at 2pm ET in Phoenix, in a game that will decide if Mexico advances to the tournament’s quarter-finals in Miami.