Preparation for FIFA World Cup 2026
Querétaro, Qro. The La Corregidora stadium in Querétaro’s capital will host the Mexico national team’s preparation match against Islandia, as announced by representatives from the Mexican Football Federation (FMF), Club Querétaro, and local governments.
This will be the tenth occasion that Mexico’s national team plays at La Corregidora. Tickets will go on sale in early January, according to FMF executive president Ivar Sisniega.
Historical Significance and Relevance
Sisniega highlighted that Querétaro was chosen due to its similar altitude to Mexico City, favorable climate, geographical location, and the presence of supportive fans. He also mentioned that FIFA will announce team assignments for training venues on January 30.
“Querétaro has attracted interest from several national teams because of its location, climate, and other advantages during the summer months,” Sisniega explained.
In addition to the Mexico vs. Islandia match, the national team will play two more games in January outside Mexico: against Panama on January 22 and Bolivia on January 25.
Importance of the Friendly Match
Director of National Team Soccer, Duilio Davino, emphasized that the Islandia match will serve as a benchmark for facing European teams, given Islandia’s complex style of play.
“We have secured January, February, and March’s schedule with Panama, Bolivia, Islandia, Portugal, and Belgium. We will soon announce the last three matches in May and June. These games are crucial as they allow Mexican league players to gain playing time, showcase their skills, and help coach Javier Aguirre finalize the World Cup roster,” Davino stated.
Support from Local Authorities and Club
During the announcement, Club Querétaro owner Marc Spiegel stressed the importance of the Islandia match for Mexico’s preparation.
Querétaro Governor Mauricio Kuri González added that a Querétaro-Madrid flight will soon commence, further positioning the state on the global map.
Key Questions and Answers
- What is the purpose of this friendly match? This match is part of Mexico’s preparation process for the FIFA World Cup 2026.
- Why was Querétaro chosen as the venue? Querétaro’s similar altitude to Mexico City, favorable climate, geographical location, and supportive fanbase made it an attractive choice.
- What other matches will Mexico play in January? Mexico will face Panama on January 22 and Bolivia on January 25, both outside Mexico.
- Why is the Islandia match significant? The match against Islandia will serve as a benchmark for facing European teams due to Islandia’s complex playing style.
- What impact will the Querétaro-Madrid flight have? The new flight will further position Querétaro on the global map and support the state’s growing prominence in international sports events.
