Monterrey is investing millions in infrastructure to host 2026 World Cup matches, while facing security concerns in its metropolitan area. The state government has allocated 150 billion pesos for improvements in transport and services, projecting a 3 billion dollar economic impact. Yet, crime challenges persist despite reductions in homicide and robbery figures.
The Estadio BBVA, located in Guadalupe at the heart of the Monterrey metropolitan area, will host four 2026 World Cup matches: three group stage games and one round of 16. The stadium will change its name during the tournament to comply with regulations. Club Monterrey will invest between 6 and 7.2 million dollars in internal upgrades to meet FIFA standards.
The Nuevo León government, led by Samuel García, has allocated approximately 150 billion pesos to projects in transport, urban mobility, tourist services, and security. This investment aims to capitalize on over 5 million visitors and generate around 3 billion dollars in direct economic impact.
However, the metropolitan area faces security challenges. In 2025, Nuevo León recorded 724 intentional homicides, a 53 percent decrease from the 1,539 of the previous year. Property crimes fell 26 percent compared to 2024. In the first 13 days of January 2026, 20 homicides were reported, 39 percent fewer than the same period the prior year, with an average of 29 daily robbery reports.
Municipalities like Guadalupe and Escobedo are perceived as risk areas, especially for visitors, while San Pedro Garza García maintains low rates. A proposal to raise the Payroll Tax from 3 to 4 percent, intended to fund works and security, was rejected by the local Congress, highlighting tensions between resources and economic competitiveness.
Governor Samuel García established the Unified Security Coordination Table with 4,000 elements dedicated to the event, aiming to ensure protection during the tournament. These steps reflect the balance between economic benefits and the need for fiscal sustainability and ongoing security.
