Mexico accelerates preparations for the 2026 World Cup

According to a VNA correspondent in Mexico, the Mexico City government is implementing 30 key infrastructure projects around the Azteca Stadium — the venue for the opening ceremony on June 11 — with a total investment exceeding 6,000 billion pesos (approximately 335 million USD). The projects include transportation upgrades, urban renewal, enhanced security and lighting systems, and construction of a new market for more than 750 small vendors affected by the area’s redevelopment plan.

Speaking about the preparations, Mexico City Mayor Clara Brugada emphasized: “We are not only preparing for a sports event but also aiming to improve the urban landscape and build an image of Mexico as modern, safe, and welcoming.” She confirmed that the progress of the projects is being “monitored daily” to ensure timely completion.

Azteca Stadium is undergoing upgrades including hybrid grass installation, expansion of VIP areas, and improved access systems, with plans to increase capacity to around 87,000 spectators. Mexico’s Ministry of Sports stated that all renovation works must meet “FIFA technical standards,” especially regarding security, communications, and medical capabilities.

In Guadalajara, the capital of Jalisco state, local authorities expect over 1 million visitors during the tournament period, with up to 200,000 attending matches featuring the Mexican national team. The city has planned to add 7 new hotels before the event and develop 24 additional accommodation facilities by 2028 to meet long-term demand.
Meanwhile, in Monterrey, the capital of Nuevo León state, the government is launching a special investment fund for the World Cup, focusing on expanding the international airport, improving transport connections, and upgrading service areas around the BBVA Stadium. In a recent press conference, Governor Samuel García affirmed: “Monterrey will be the gateway welcoming the world; we see this as an opportunity to position the city as the leading economic and sports hub in the region.”

At the same time, many experts and scholars praise Mexico’s efforts. Dr. Carlos Arce, a sports economics expert at UNAM University, commented: “The 2026 World Cup could generate economic ripple effects for many years, especially benefiting tourism, logistics, and commercial services. If well leveraged, Mexico could see tourism revenue growth of 10–15% during the event year.”

According to research by Deloitte in cooperation with Airbnb, Mexican hosts could earn over 25 million USD from the shared accommodation platform during the tournament. Additionally, the aviation and transport sectors are expected to increase capacity by 8–12%, while food and entertainment services anticipate revenue growth of about 20% compared to the same period last year.

However, challenges have arisen in the preparations. Many fans have reported technical issues with FIFA’s ticket registration system, causing difficulties for domestic users. Mexican authorities recommend fans to “be patient and follow official instructions,” while working with FIFA to improve the system.

Observers believe Mexico’s success will not only depend on the quality of facilities but also on its ability to ensure security, manage international visitor flows, and showcase cultural values and local hospitality. The country’s Tourism Ministry is rolling out training programs in foreign languages, service, and visitor safety for tens of thousands of workers in the sector.

Hosting the World Cup for the third time after 1970 and 1986, Mexico hopes the 2026 tournament will mark a “turning point,” demonstrating organizational capacity and laying a sustainable foundation for tourism and urban economic development in the years ahead.