Fernando Mendoza Delivers Heisman Acceptance Speech in Spanish as Language Choice Debate Erupts – “Learn English”

Fernando Mendoza won the 2025 Heisman Award by beating Diego Pavia, Jeremiah Love and Julian Sayin.

Fernando Mendoza Delivers Heisman Acceptance Speech in Spanish as Language Choice Debate Erupts – “Learn English”

Fernando Mendoza wins Heisman Trophy, Donald Trump (Image via IMAGO/X)

🔍 Explore this post with:

ChatGPTPerplexityGrok AIGoogle AI

Fernando Mendoza won the 2025 Heisman Trophy on Saturday, December 13. Mendoza beat out Ohio State quarterback Julian Sayin, Vanderbilt quarterback Diego Pavia, and Notre Dame running back Jeremiyah Love to become the first athlete from the University of Indiana football program to win the Heisman Trophy.

The 22-year-old began his Heisman acceptance speech by thanking GOD, his teammates at Indiana, the University of California (the Golden Bears), his coaches, and his family members. Mendoza gradually became emotional while speaking about his brother and his backup at Hoosiers, Alberto Mendoza.

In his muffled voice, Mendoza gave a tribute to his parents. He recalled his mother’s sacrifices and his father’s unwavering support throughout his journey from being a good college QB to becoming one of the best.

Standing here tonight, holding this [Heisman Trophy] representing Indiana University still doesn’t feel real. If you told me as a kid in Miami that I’d be here on stage holding this prestigious trophy, I probably would have laughed, cried like I’m doing now, or both. Because of this moment, it’s an honor. It’s bigger than me.

Fernando Mendoza said

After that, Mendoza turned his attention to his grandparents, Alberto and Alicia Espinoza, who made the long journey to see him ordained as the best college football player in 2025. Embracing his Cuban heritage, Mendoza switched to addressing his Abuelos in Spanish.

For the love and sacrifice of my parents and grandparents, I love you a lot. From all my heart, I thank you.

Mendoza said as per the English translation

Fernando Mendoza drew backlash from the far right for speaking Spanish during his Heisman acceptance speech

While Mendoza won the hearts of the Spanish-speaking population of the country, the purists weren’t too pleased. The right-leaning audience felt that Mendoza should have continued in English.

Fernando Mendoza Delivers Heisman Acceptance Speech in Spanish as Language Choice Debate Erupts - "Learn English"
Fernando Mendoza (Image via IMAGO)

It doesn’t come as a surprise because the Vice President of the USA, JD Vance, also believes that Americans should only speak English. From his right-wing perspective, vernacular disparity is bound to create chaos in society.

Of course, he received massive pushback for his remarks, especially as Vance is married to a Hindu woman. He was bombarded with racist comments when a video of him being surrounded by his in-laws from a family function surfaced online. Ironically, he was criticized by individuals with right-wing affiliations.

If a prominent political figure like Vance can’t escape internet trolls, then someone from a Latino background speaking their native language on live TV won’t have it any easier.

Unaware of the buzz on social media, Mendoza wrapped up his speech with a heartfelt message for the next generation.

I want every kid out there who feels overlooked, underestimated, to know, I was you. I was that kid, too. I was in your shoes. The truth is: You don’t need the most stars [coming out of high school], hype, or rankings. You just need discipline [in your life], heart, and people who believe in you. And you need to believe in your own abilities. Chasing your dreams is worth it, no matter how big or impossible they seem.

Fernando Mendoza said

Mendoza played a total of three seasons of college football. He racked up 644 pass completions (68.1%) for 7692 yards, 63 passing touchdowns, and 22 interceptions, along with 437 yards on the ground and 10 rushing touchdowns.

Also Read: