Azteca Stadium Opens a World Cup for the Third Time

Mexico City: Mexico City's Estadio Azteca is preparing to become the first stadium in the world to host the opening ceremony of three different FIFA World Cup editions. The iconic venue, which already hosted the opening matches of the 1970 (Mexico vs. Soviet Union, 0-0 draw) and 1986 (Italy vs. Bulgaria, 1-1 draw) World Cups, will open the 2026 tournament in June, as announced by FIFA.

The 2026 tournament is the largest in soccer history: for the first time, 48 national teams participate instead of the usual 32, requiring a total of 104 matches distributed across 16 stadiums in three countries — the United States, Mexico, and Canada — over approximately 39 days of competition. Mexico contributes three venues to the tournament: Estadio Azteca and Estadio de la Ciudad de los Deportes in Mexico City, Estadio Akron in Guadalajara, and Estadio BBVA in Monterrey.

Preparations and Logistical Challenges

Organizing the tournament in three countries simultaneously presents unprecedented logistical challenges for FIFA and local federations. Mexico City's international airport conducted high-risk drills on April 24, 2026, to prepare its response to potential threats during the event. The Secretariat of National Defense published a decree establishing four Zones of Surveillance and Protection of Mexican Airspace valid between May 11 and July 20, 2026.

Soccer and Diplomacy

The tournament takes place during a moment of significant diplomatic tensions in North America, with trade relations between Mexico and the US under pressure from the Trump administration's tariffs. The World Cup acts as a catalyst for collaboration among the three co-host countries, who hold regular coordination meetings. President Sheinbaum and FIFA President Infantino have met to ensure the tournament proceeds successfully.