The roar of the crowd at the Cotton Bowl isn't just for FC Dallas. North Texas has quietly become a surprising stronghold for fans of the Rayados de Monterrey, a Liga MX team located a considerable 11-hour drive away in Monterrey, Mexico. This passionate following, deeply rooted in the region's Hispanic community, showcases the growing influence of Liga MX in the United States and highlights a unique soccer culture in the heart of Texas.

A Passion Runs Deep

The dedication of Rayados fans in North Texas is undeniable. Stories abound of fans taking extraordinary measures to support their team, from calling in sick for work to attend matches in distant cities to naming their children after legendary Rayados players. Oswaldo Hernández, a Dallas resident, exemplifies this unwavering loyalty, recounting his three-day absence from work to cheer on Rayados in Seattle during the 2023 Leagues Cup.

This intense fandom isn't just anecdotal. The popularity of Liga MX in the US, rivaling even the English Premier League in viewership in some instances, provides a compelling backdrop to this phenomenon. The 2023 Liga MX final second leg, for example, drew a staggering 2.02 million viewers – the same number as the concurrently aired Liverpool-Manchester City match. This widespread viewership speaks to Liga MX’s growing appeal and its power to cultivate dedicated fan bases across borders.

Rayados' Rise to Prominence

Rayados' own success contributes significantly to their North Texas popularity. Since FEMSA, a major Mexican corporation, acquired the team in 2006, the club has invested heavily in its infrastructure and talent, achieving significant success on the field. The construction of the BBVA Stadium, considered one of the best in CONCACAF, further cemented their status as a major force in Mexican and international soccer.

Their consistent participation in the Club World Cup (five appearances) and their five Liga MX titles, including their most recent victory in 2019, continuously fuel the fervor of their fans. The upcoming Dallas Cup will mark their 22nd participation in the tournament, testament to the club’s lasting presence in the North Texas soccer landscape.

A Community Hub

The impact of Rayados extends beyond individual fans. Businesses like Taqueria La Victoria, owned by María del Carmen García, have embraced Rayados as part of their identity. The taqueria’s décor features murals, photos of legendary players, and even a unique crest crafted by a Monterrey prison inmate. This business, and many others like it, act as community hubs, bringing together fans to celebrate their shared passion for Rayados.

Further solidifying the club’s presence, Rayados officially endorses a soccer academy in North Texas, led by David Ávila. This academy provides formal training for 190 children and young adults, ensuring the next generation of Rayados fans continues to grow up with the same passion as their parents and grandparents. Ávila emphasizes the strong sense of regional pride among Monterrey residents as a key element to understanding the club's far-reaching popularity.

A New Generation

The final scene at a Rayados academy practice in Richardson encapsulates this story perfectly: young players, arms raised, yelling “Rayados! Rayados! Rayados!” This passionate display signifies more than just a team; it represents a vibrant community, a cultural connection, and the enduring power of soccer to unite people across vast distances.

The story of Rayados in North Texas isn't just about a team's success; it's a powerful narrative of cultural identity, community building, and the unwavering passion of soccer fans. It's a testament to the global reach of the sport and the profound connections it fosters.