US Secretary of State Marco Rubio's choice of sportswear for a flight to China has sparked a viral sensation and political commentary, drawing comparisons to an infamous image of former Venezuelan president Nicolas Maduro. White House Communications Director Steven Cheung shared the image on X on 13/5, showing Rubio in a grey Nike Tech "Venezuela" tracksuit while en route to China.

The post quickly drew attention with over 1,6 million views, fueled by the outfit's resemblance to the one Maduro wore when he was escorted to the US in 1/2026. President Donald Trump had previously shared a photo of Maduro in the same style of tracksuit, blindfolded and handcuffed, amplifying the comparison. White House Deputy Press Secretary Anna Kelly called the move "legendary".

US secretary of state (left) wearing attire similar to the former Venezuelan president (right). Photo: X/Steven Cheung.

The image elicited mixed reactions. Some right-wing commentators in the US expressed amusement, while others suggested the secretary of state should have worn more formal attire for an official trip with the US president.

NewsX channel linked the outfit to a "playful" media tactic, especially considering Beijing's 2020 entry ban on Rubio due to his criticism of China's policies in Xinjiang and Hong Kong.

Despite past tensions, China confirmed on 12/5 that it would not bar Rubio's entry. Liu Pengyu, spokesperson for the Chinese Embassy in the US, clarified that earlier sanctions targeted Mr. Rubio's statements and actions related to China when he was a senator.

Hong Hanh (According to New York Post, Fox, NewsX)