The incident occurred on 2/8 during the 4th Color Run in Juarez Park, Huamantla. Jose Julio Mendoza, a 70-year-old athlete with over 40 years of experience in track and field, was tackled by a security guard just two meters from the finish line. The event, part of the International Festival of Ephemeral Art and Dahlias 2026, concluded controversially after the incident was filmed and quickly went viral on social media.

Photo: screenshot

Mendoza had attempted to register for the race but found all spots filled. Despite not having an official bib number, the 70-year-old decided to complete the course independently.

As he approached the finish line, Ricardo Romano Corona, a security employee from Zona T—the company responsible for organizing and securing the event—ran out, blocked his path, and pushed him to the ground. Witnesses described the forceful push as similar to a tackle in American football.

According to the organizers, Mendoza was not on the official registration list and therefore was not permitted to cross the finish line. However, this handling of the situation drew widespread criticism on social media, with many users arguing that the security guard used unnecessary force against an elderly person.

Following the fall, Mendoza sought medical attention. He reported pain in his hip, back, and shoulder, with a suspected shoulder fracture. He underwent X-rays and other tests, and is currently receiving medication as prescribed by doctors.

"I have pain in my hip, part of my buttock, and shoulder after the fall. I had X-rays, am on medication, and waiting for the doctor's conclusion," Mendoza told local media.

The injury has forced him to pause his training, making it highly probable he will miss the 43rd Mexico City Marathon, scheduled for 30/8, which expects approximately 30,000 runners. "I just hope they pay for my treatment because I don't have much money," he added.

After the video circulated widely, Ricardo Romano Corona publicly apologized and accepted full responsibility for his actions. "Unacceptable behaviors occurred, and I take complete responsibility. I sincerely apologize to all those affected or who felt affected by my disrespectful actions," he stated.

Zona T also acknowledged "inappropriate behaviors" during its participant control procedures. The company announced it is conducting an internal investigation and reviewing its organizational processes. It is also looking into the circumstances of Mendoza's participation on the track without an official bib number.

Mendoza (far left) met with the Mayor of Huamantla and the family of the person who tackled him. Photo: Facebook / Chava Santos

Salvador Santos Cedillo, the Mayor of Huamantla, condemned the incident, emphasizing that all festival activities must ensure the safety and respect of participants. He facilitated a meeting between Mendoza, the security employee's family, and representatives from Zona T.

Local authorities confirmed that Ricardo Romano Corona's family and the company's representatives have agreed to cover all of Mendoza's medical expenses, including examinations, X-rays, tests, medication, and other related treatments for his injuries.

Hong Duy (according to Diario de Mexico, Infobae)