Introduction to Guadalajara’s Preparation for the FIFA World Cup 2026
Guadalajara, Jalisco, is gearing up to host one of Mexico’s group stage matches during the FIFA World Cup 2026. According to projections by the Guadalajara Office of Visitors and Conventions (OFVC), this event is expected to attract approximately one million tourists to the metropolitan area, despite the city’s 32,000 hotel rooms being insufficient.
The Impact of the Second Match on Tourism
Gustavo Staufert Buclon, Director of the OFVC, explained that the second match, which will take place in Guadalajara during the first phase of the tournament, is projected to gather 50,000 spectators inside the stadium and an estimated 950,000 people outside for the Fan Fest. These numbers highlight the significant influx of visitors that such events can generate.
Historical Context and Comparison
Staufert Buclon drew parallels to previous World Cup events, noting that Mexico City experienced overflow during the 1970 and 1986 tournaments. He reminisced about the days when cars were parked along the Periférico, and fans walked to the stadium.
Hotel Infrastructure Expansion
Bernardo Aguilar, President of the Jalisco Hotel Association, reported that between 2025 and 2028, Guadalajara will welcome 24 new hotels. This expansion will add approximately 3,000 rooms to the current hotel inventory of 31,000.
Anticipated Hotel Openings for the World Cup
Aguilar Martínez mentioned that by 2026, six to seven new hotels are expected to open, providing around 916 rooms. He emphasized the significance of this investment and the upcoming México Hospitality Expo as an opportunity to prepare for the World Cup. Marriott International, a major player in international event organization, is among those planning to participate.
Key Questions and Answers
- What is the expected number of tourists during the second match in Guadalajara? Approximately one million tourists are projected to visit Guadalajara for the second match.
- Why are hotels in Guadalajara expanding? The city is anticipating a surge in tourism due to the FIFA World Cup 2026, leading to an expansion of hotel infrastructure.
- What other events are contributing to Guadalajara’s hotel growth? In addition to the World Cup, the city will also host the Mundial de Grandes Presas (World Dam Congress) a month before the tournament, further driving hotel development.
- Which international hotel chains are investing in Guadalajara? Marriott International is one of the major hotel chains planning to expand its presence in Guadalajara.
