Mexico’s Role in the 2026 FIFA World Cup: Matches and Star Players

Web Editor

December 28, 2025

three mascots are standing in the grass with their hands up in the air and one is holding a soccer b

Mexico as Co-Host of the 2026 FIFA World Cup

The 2026 FIFA World Cup is fast approaching, and Mexican fans are buzzing with excitement. For the first time in history, this prestigious football tournament will be held simultaneously across three countries: the United States, Canada, and Mexico, from June 11 to July 19, 2026.

Mexico will be a co-host, welcoming 13 of the 104 matches scheduled, including group stage games, round of 16, and quarterfinals. Moreover, Mexico will host the opening match of the tournament at the Estadio Azteca in Mexico City.

Match Schedule in Mexican Stadiums

Estadio Azteca (Mexico City):

  • Opening match of the World Cup and Group A match on June 11.
  • Group stage matches on June 17 and 24.
  • A round of 16 match on June 30.
  • A quarterfinal match on July 5.

Estadio Akron (Guadalajara):

  • Four group stage matches, including Mexico’s match on June 18.

Estadio BBVA (Monterrey):

  • Four group stage matches, featuring teams like Japan and Tunisia.

Mexico will have a substantial World Cup presence, though less than the United States (78 matches) and Canada (13 matches). A total of five matches will be played in Mexico City, four in Guadalajara, and four in Monterrey. Multiple high-level teams have confirmed their participation in these encounters.

Star Players to Watch

The 2026 World Cup promises to feature some of the most renowned football players globally, including elite strikers like:

  • Kylian Mbappé (France)
  • Erling Haaland (Norway)

Other notable players generating anticipation:

  • Lamine Yamal and Pedri (Spain)
  • Federico Valverde and Darwin Núñez (Uruguay)
  • Luis Díaz and James Rodríguez (Colombia)
  • Heung-Min Son and Lee Kang-in (South Korea)

Key Questions and Answers

  • Q: Why is Mexico co-hosting the 2026 FIFA World Cup? A: Mexico, along with the United States and Canada, will host this prestigious tournament for the first time in history.
  • Q: How many matches will Mexico host? A: Mexico will host 13 out of the 104 matches scheduled for the tournament.
  • Q: Which stadiums in Mexico will host World Cup matches? A: The Estadio Azteca in Mexico City, the Estadio Akron in Guadalajara, and the Estadio BBVA in Monterrey will host matches.
  • Q: Which star players are expected to participate in the 2026 World Cup? A: Notable players include Kylian Mbappé, Erling Haaland, Cristiano Ronaldo, Lionel Messi, Lamine Yamal, Pedri, Federico Valverde, Darwin Núñez, Luis Díaz, James Rodríguez, Heung-Min Son, and Lee Kang-in.