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Amid the vibrant green celebrations that swept Mexico City following the country’s World Cup triumph over Ecuador on Tuesday, a singular establishment stood in quiet defiance, proudly displaying the Ecuadorian flag.
This was the Losers Cafe, a unique coffee shop in the cosmopolitan Condesa neighbourhood, offering a haven for the disheartened fans of defeated teams.
Each morning, small flags representing the nations knocked out of the tournament are hoisted at the cafe’s entrance, fostering a sense of shared experience. Inside, a complimentary drink awaits anyone arriving in the jersey of a losing team, while even the napkins offer a wry comfort, emblazoned with the words “dry your tears”.
Monse Aguilar, a 24-year-old photographer, found solace here earlier this week after her team, South Africa, exited the World Cup following a 1-0 loss to Canada. “It’s like a hug for the heart after losing,” she remarked, sipping her free beverage.
Fans head to the Losers Cafe after their team is knocked out of the World Cup (Reuters)
The concept for the Losers Cafe originated with the Swedish dairy alternative brand Oatly, which then partnered with Ian Infante, owner of what is usually known as Compay Cafe.
Infante, 38, a Venezuelan immigrant who began his business as a street stall, immediately connected with the idea, understanding “the emptiness left by loss”.
Initially, however, the concept proved a little challenging for some customers. Infante noted that during the World Cup’s opening week, patrons struggled to grasp the new identity.
“People were saying, ‘I’m not a loser.’ But once we explained how it works, they understood it and began to enjoy it more, feeling a bit more connected to defeat,” he explained.
Rocio de la Cuadra Diaz, market developer for Oatly Mexico, clarified the decision to launch the campaign in Mexico City, rather than other World Cup host cities in the US or Canada. She cited the brand’s rapid growth in Latin America and the local sense of humour.
“The concept of creating a cafe for losers in Mexico made sense because we almost always lose,” De la Cuadra stated.
Now, with Mexico having secured their first knockout game victory in 40 years, that self-deprecating mentality might begin to shift. Mexican fans are fervently hoping El Tri can achieve a historic upset against England on Sunday.
And if not, the Losers Cafe will undoubtedly be ready to welcome them.
