Introduction to the Event and Key Participants
The upcoming match between Mexico and Portugal will be the first event at the newly renovated Estadio Banorte, making it the only venue worldwide to host three World Cups. The anticipation for seeing football superstar Cristiano Ronaldo in the reinauguration of the Estadio Banorte (formerly known as Estadio Azteca) overwhelmed the ticketing platform Fanki. The Colombian platform experienced two days of technical issues, complaints, and temporary suspension of operations that ultimately led to the rescheduling of the much-anticipated Mexico vs. Portugal match on March 28, 2026.
Ticketing Platform Fanki Faces Technical Difficulties
On the morning of December 10, thousands of fans attempted to purchase tickets through Fanki. Within minutes, users began reporting errors, lockups, and the inability to complete transactions. Fanki acknowledged “unusual activity in incoming traffic,” including attempts at system overload and digital identity impersonation. Following security protocols, Fanki decided not to open sales, safeguard the system, and temporarily suspend virtual queue operations.
The company stated that this measure aimed to “protect the integrity of transactions” and ensure all users could access the system securely.
Fan Frustration and Historical Significance
The temporary halt caused frustration among fans, especially since this match marks the return of Portugal and Cristiano Ronaldo to Mexico during a World Cup year.
Profeco Intervenes: Calls for Transparency and Communication
Amidst reports of technical issues, the Federal Procurator for Consumer Affairs (Profeco) entered the scene. Before Fanki’s official suspension announcement, Profeco issued a message urging the platform to provide accurate, timely, and truthful information to fans. The organization also encouraged establishing a reliable communication channel to prevent abuses and protect consumers’ rights.
Rescheduled Sale and Lightning-Fast Ticket Exhaustion
Following the Wednesday suspension, Fanki announced new prevent sale dates: December 11 and 12 for Banorte cardholders only. On Thursday, the platform managed to initiate sales without major interruptions… until the next setback: tickets sold out in minutes.
At 10:55 AM, Fanki reported on social media:
“¡La Preventa Banorte se agotó! Su pasión no tiene límites.”
The frenzy to see Cristiano Ronaldo, Bernardo Silva, Vitinha, and others, along with witnessing the reopening of the revitalized Estadio Banorte, quickly exhausted available tickets.
General Sale Alert: Warning Against Fraudulent Websites
For the general sale, scheduled for Saturday, December 13 at 9:00 AM, Fanki issued a series of warnings on X regarding the rise of fake websites mimicking their platform.
Fanki reminded users that its official website is fanki.com.mx and never requests:
- Photos of bank cards
- Codes sent via WhatsApp
- Personal information outside official processes
- Deposits or transfers
These warnings emerged as testimonials of attempted scams capitalizing on the high demand for the match grew on social media.
Ticket Prices: Ranging from 500 to 9,000 Pesos
Fanki confirmed the official price list for the encounter. Prices do not include service fees and range from 500 pesos in upper-level seats to 9,000 pesos for premium locations.
Notable prices:
- Upper Side UF: $500
- Front Row 300: $1,750
- Side 100: $4,000
- Club Lounge: $6,000
- Sierra Porch: $8,000
- Premium A Chairman: $9,000
Prevent sale Banorte tickets could be purchased at 5 or 10 months without interest, with a maximum of four tickets per person.
A High-Profile Friendly Match Towards World Cup 2026
The Mexico vs. Portugal match will be the first event at the revitalized Estadio Banorte, destined to become the only venue globally hosting three World Cups. This friendly match is part of the last FIFA date before the 2026 World Cup and will feature full squads, explaining the frenzy to secure tickets.
Following this encounter, Mexico will face Belgium on March 31 in Chicago and has another friendly match against Argentina, according to the Argentine Football Association (AFA).
Key Questions and Answers
- What caused the ticket sale chaos? The high demand for seeing Cristiano Ronaldo in the Mexico vs. Portugal match overwhelmed the Fanki ticketing platform, leading to technical issues and temporary suspension of sales.
- Who is Cristiano Ronaldo? Cristiano Ronaldo is a Portuguese professional footballer who plays as a forward for Serie A club Juventus and captains the Portugal national team. Widely regarded as one of the greatest players of all time, he has won five Ballon d’Or awards and four European Golden Shoes.
- What is the significance of the Estadio Banorte? The Estadio Banorte, formerly known as Estadio Azteca, is a significant venue in Mexico. After its renovation, it will become the only stadium worldwide to host three FIFA World Cups.
- What are the ticket prices for the Mexico vs. Portugal match? Ticket prices range from 500 pesos for upper-level seats to 9,000 pesos for premium locations. Prevent sale Banorte tickets could be purchased with special financing options.
