When the FIFA World Cup kicks off in June 2026, Mexico City won’t merely be a host city for matches; it will have undergone a complete transformation. Mexico City, co-hosting with the United States and Canada, will leverage this event to improve its infrastructure, revitalize its global image, and establish itself as a premier destination.
Sports and Urban Infrastructure
Comprehensive Renovation of the Estadio Azteca
The Estadio Azteca, one of the most iconic venues in world football, will host four matches: three group stage games and one Round of 16 clash. Since 2023, the stadium has been undergoing extensive renovation to meet FIFA standards, including modernization of changing rooms, expansion of access points, installation of video surveillance systems, and renewal of seating. This work not only prepares the Azteca for the World Cup but also aims to leave a permanent legacy, much like what happened during the 1986 World Cup.
Mobility Redesign in the South of the City
To ensure fans arrive at the stadiums on time, the capital government plans to reconfigure key routes in the south of Mexico City. Express lanes will be created on strategic corridors, and Metro and Metrobús frequencies and schedules will be adjusted, extending their operation until the early morning on match days. Simultaneously, information campaigns will be rolled out to encourage the use of public transport, reducing pressure on roadways and alleviating congestion.
Fan Fest in the Zócalo and All Boroughs
One of the most anticipated highlights is the transformation of the Zócalo, the capital’s main square, into a grand Fan Fest. It will feature 5-a-side football pitches, giant screens to watch all matches, and cultural spaces. However, the proposal goes further: screens will be set up in each of the 16 boroughs, ensuring that any resident can experience the World Cup free of charge. These sports and cultural activities—from concerts to exhibitions—reflect a commitment to an experience “beyond football”.
Economy, Tourism, and Local Development
Projected Visitors and Economic Impact
Local authorities estimate the arrival of over 230,000 national and international tourists, a figure that will generate an economic impact of approximately 200 million dollars. This influx will benefit the formal sector—hotels, restaurants, transport providers—as well as informal commerce. Tianguis (street markets), street vendors, and local markets (like La Merced or San Juan) are preparing to offer souvenirs and typical products, ensuring a positive impact on the economy of traditional neighborhoods.
Hotel and Restaurant Training
Aware of the cultural diversity of visitors—from Europe, Africa, Asia, and Oceania—hotels and restaurants have designed training programs in multilingual customer service (English, French, Portuguese, and African languages) and international service protocols. Additionally, a mobile application for tourists will be launched, including interactive maps, translations, route recommendations, and cultural suggestions, facilitating their stay and reinforcing Mexico City’s image as a host city.
Sports Tourism as Public Policy
More than an isolated event, the World Cup is part of a sports tourism strategy that Mexico City is promoting to consistently attract international events. Through this public policy, the aim is to generate employment, foster foreign investment, and boost the local productive chain. Thus, the capital aspires to consolidate itself as a benchmark in organizing high-level competitions and promoting sports culture.
Security and Technology for Visitors
Coordinated Operations and Strategic Points
Coordination among federal authorities (National Guard, Secretariat of the Navy, and National Defense) and local security forces (Banking and Industrial Police, Secretariat of Citizen Security) will be fundamental. Specific operations will be deployed at the “Benito Juárez” International Airport, bus terminals, hotels, and crowded public spaces. These efforts aim to guarantee the protection of the 230,000 visitors and the capital’s residents themselves, preventing incidents during the football festivities.
Video Surveillance and Facial Recognition
To enhance monitoring, facial recognition technology will be installed at key public transport points and stadium access points. Furthermore, the network of security cameras around the city will be expanded. An expanded C5 Control Center will coordinate real-time surveillance, allowing for a rapid response to any contingency.
Civil Protection Program
The local government will launch a special civil protection program that includes drills in stadiums and at the Fan Fest, training for first aid brigades, and the establishment of medical modules on strategic routes. Hospitals and public health centers will have additional supplies and extra staff, ready to intervene in case of emergencies. This system ensures timely attention for those who require it, both visitors and residents.
Culture, Entertainment, and Citizen Coexistence
Cultural Offer Parallel to the Tournament
Beyond the goals, a cultural repertoire will be promoted, including concerts, photographic exhibitions, and sports film screenings. The Estadio Azteca Museum and the National Sports Museum will add thematic activities related to the World Cup, encouraging the participation of schools, civil associations, and sports clubs31. The idea is for the event to be experienced as a great social occasion, integrating artistic and sports disciplines.
Concerts and Shows at the Fan Fest
During each day of the Fan Fest in the Zócalo, musical performances featuring national and international artists will be organized. This will attract spectators who, even if not football fans, will want to experience the World Cup atmosphere. Likewise, dance shows, street theater, and activities for children will be coordinated, fostering an inclusive environment that welcomes all audiences.
Challenges, Coordination, and Legacy
Coordination with FIFA and Tight Schedule
Negotiations with FIFA began in 2022, and since then, the responsibilities of each level of government have been outlined. However, meeting the established deadlines—especially for the delivery of the remodeled Estadio Azteca and the road infrastructure—represents a challenge. The deadline for all projects to be completed is March 2026, necessitating strict monitoring and extended work hours.
Impact on the City’s Daily Life
While the massive influx of visitors will boost the economy, it will also generate congestion and pressure on public services during peak hours. To mitigate this, alternative transport routes have been implemented, and the aforementioned mobile application will offer recommended travel times. The goal is to find a balance between the World Cup festivities and the quality of life for residents.
With the Final Whistle, a New Era Begins
Mexico City approaches the 2026 World Cup with the conviction that it can intertwine its rich cultural heritage with the passion for football, consolidating itself as a cutting-edge metropolis. If everything goes as planned, in July 2026, we will not only celebrate goals but also witness the fruit of transformations that will ultimately benefit the population. At that moment, Mexico City will demonstrate that its greatest victory is not on the field, but in closing gaps, boosting the economy, and the social legacy that will remain when the ball stops rolling.
Photo of the portrait: Depositphotos
