Chilean Pokémon Champion Receives Presidential Honor

The Pokémon TCG World Champion was honored with a meeting with the President of Chile. Read on to learn more about their meeting and Cifuentes’ extraordinary journey to the top.

From Pokémon TCG Champion to Breakfasting with the President of ChileA Historic Meeting at Palacio de La Moneda

At just 18 years old, Fernando Cifuentes, the reigning Pokémon TCG World Champion, received a remarkable honor on Thursday when he and nine fellow Chilean competitors were invited to Palacio de La Moneda, the official residence of the President of Chile.

During their visit, the group enjoyed a warm welcome at the presidential palace, sharing a hearty meal with the President and participating in a lively photo opportunity. The Chilean government also expressed its immense pride and admiration for the nine players who reached the second day of the competition. In addition to the President, other high-ranking government officials were present to greet and congratulate the talented group.

In his Instagram post, President Boric highlighted the positive influence of trading card games on young people, noting that these communities cultivate collaboration and friendship through competition.

In addition to the commendation, Cifuentes received a large, framed bespoke card featuring himself and Iron Thorns, the Pokémon he used to secure the championship. The card's inscription, translated from Spanish, reads: "Fernando and Iron Thorns. Ability: World Champion. Fernando Cifuentes, hailing from Iquique, made history as the first Chilean to be crowned world champion during the Pokémon World Championships 2024 Masters Finals in Honolulu, Hawaii."

It's no surprise that the Chilean President is familiar with Iron Thorns. He himself is a keen Pokémon fan. During his 2021 presidential campaign, when asked about his favorite Pokémon, he revealed his fondness for Squirtle. To celebrate his victory, the Japanese Minister for Foreign Affairs presented him with a Squirtle and Pokéball plush as a gesture of appreciation for his love of the Pokémon anime.

Cifuentes’ Near-Elimination and Subsequent Triumph

Cifuentes’ path to victory wasn't without its challenges. He barely escaped elimination in the Top 8 match against Ian Robb. Robb won the match but was disqualified for unsporting behavior—making an inappropriate gesture on camera. This surprising turn of events resulted in Cifuentes unexpectedly facing Jesse Parker in the semifinals. Despite this, Cifuentes triumphed, defeating Parker and runner-up Seinosuke Shiokawa to claim the $50,000 grand prize.

For more details on the 2024 Pokémon World Championship, check out our article below!