Greggs has confirmed it will remove Mexican food products from its shelves from today (July 5) in what it calls a 'tactical shift' ahead of England's World Cup match against Mexico. The bakery chain says the suspension is a show of support for the Three Lions, who face the hosts in Mexico City's Estadio Azteca at 1am Monday morning (UK time).
First-Ever Sandwich Range Drop
The Mexican sandwich range will be unavailable until tomorrow (July 6), marking the first time Greggs has ever dropped a sandwich from its lineup, according to Customer Director Zoe Harris. She confirmed the items will return shortly. The change applies across England, while the Mexican chicken line-up will remain on sale in Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland.
Zoe Harris, Customer Director at Greggs, said: "It's the first time in our history we've dropped a sandwich range, but duty calls. Nothing personal - it's a tactical rotation and the gaffer's call is final. To any Mexico fans reading this, no hard feelings - we've loved having you in the starting lineup, and you'll be straight back off the bench come Monday morning. May the best team win!"
Schools Support Flexible Start Times
Separately, schools across the UK have announced they will allow students to arrive late if they wish to stay up and watch the England vs Mexico match. Some schools are offering breakfast and replays of the match before the school day begins. The National Education Union (NEU) has supported the flexible start times for Monday morning.
NEU general secretary Daniel Kebede said the match is "an important event in our calendar" and added that it would be good if as many young people as possible could watch the match. England manager Thomas Tuchel also urged parents to let their kids watch the game. He said: "Write an excuse for school and let them watch football. They have so much school to go to, but the World Cup is every four years. Let them watch, there will be a big, big match in four days, and we need the support of everyone and especially of the children."
