Mexico's government advanced preparations for the FIFA World Cup 2026, with the inaugural match scheduled for June 11 at Estadio Azteca in Mexico City. President Claudia Sheinbaum and Interior Secretary Rosa Icela Rodríguez emphasized the chance to showcase the country's culture and hospitality during the event co-hosted with the United States and Canada. FIFA representatives confirmed the historic decision to open in Mexico due to its legacy in three previous editions.
With 213 days until the start of the FIFA World Cup 2026, Mexico's government held a conference on November 10, 2025, from Los Pinos, led by President Claudia Sheinbaum. This third time as host—after 1970 and 1986—includes 13 matches in Mexico: five in Mexico City, four in Guadalajara, and four in Monterrey. The inaugural match will be played on June 11, 2026, at Estadio Azteca, a logical decision according to Jurgen Mainka, FIFA's director in Mexico, due to the country's deep soccer legacy among the three candidate nations.
Interior Secretary Rosa Icela Rodríguez highlighted that the tournament will be a national party showcasing Mexico's cultural, historical, and natural greatness, from the ancestral ball game of indigenous peoples to gastronomy like tacos, birria, and mole. “The government of President Claudia Sheinbaum is preparing for this great event that will become a party in the streets, squares, and communities across the country,” she stated. She added: “Mexico has enormous potential to make this sporting event an unforgettable one for everyone, for fans, women, girls, boys, youth, and older people”.
Sheinbaum sent a message to the Mexican National Team: “I wish you good luck and ask that when you step onto the field, you think of the great country you represent; Mexico is an extraordinary country with an exceptional people.” On security concerns, Mainka assured that collaboration with the government has been ongoing for three years: “We are confident that the protocols will yield good results for all fans, teams, and referees in 2026”.
The event will feature a “Social World Cup” with fields and mini-tournaments for children and youth, and “Fiestas Mexico 2026” with free screens in plazas for 6 million people, alongside cultural celebrations. Gabriela Cuevas, the government's representative, announced these initiatives. Sheinbaum noted that ticket prices are FIFA's decision and that spaces will be provided to watch matches not broadcast on open TV. Additionally, Mexico is pushing a joint bid with the United States, Costa Rica, and Jamaica for the 2031 Women's World Cup, with a decision in April 2026.
Sheinbaum will receive a symbolic ticket from Gianni Infantino, which she plans to donate to a low-income girl passionate about soccer. The tournament, with 194 matches in 39 days, will unite nations under Rodríguez's motto: “Sport brings nations together”.
