Owners of several Taco Rico locations across Miami are racing to contain the damage after the owner of the West Kendall franchise was caught on video using a racial slur during World Cup celebrations in Miami Beach. The clip ripped through social media, pulling the entire brand into the backlash. Fellow franchisees say they have been hit with angry messages and cancelled orders from customers who are tying one owner's behavior to every Taco Rico in town.
Viral Clip Scorches Brand, Franchisees Catch Heat
The footage has been shared across local social feeds and picked up by television newscasts, according to CBS News Miami. In that reporting, other Taco Rico owners say they have fielded a surge of complaints, heated online posts and cancelled catering requests tied directly to the viral clip. Franchisees told CBS they are trying to drive home that the West Kendall restaurant is independently owned and that the chain as a whole does not endorse what was said in the video.
West Kendall Owner Says He Is Sorry As Corporate Probes Incident
Telemundo 51 reports the West Kendall franchisee, identified as Rene Senghini, issued a statement admitting he used a "racist and hurtful" term and apologizing to the community. Taco Rico corporate, quoted by Telemundo, called the language "racist, indefensible and not welcome" and said the West Kendall franchise is under formal review to determine what corrective measures to take. Senghini said he would pursue anti-racism training and accept responsibility for the fallout from his words.
What Went Down On Miami Beach And Police Response
Miami Beach police were called to the disturbance and, officers told reporters, "interviewed both parties and asked them to end the confrontation," according to Telemundo 51. Police said they had not yet seen the viral clip at the time of their initial response and did not immediately make arrests. The exchange unfolded amid thick crowds celebrating the World Cup final on Miami Beach, a party atmosphere that has already produced several viral moments during the tournament.
Other Owners Distance Themselves While Corporate Weighs Next Move
Other Taco Rico franchisees have gone public to separate their stores from the West Kendall location, stressing that the incident involved an individual proprietor and not the company as a whole. As CBS News Miami reported, those owners are trying to reassure customers while corporate completes its review. For now, the West Kendall restaurant remains open, and Taco Rico says it will share its findings and any corrective actions once that review is finished.
