Mexico City: Historic Investment and Complete Renovation
As less than a year remains until the start of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, Mexico City is intensifying its preparations with significant investments in infrastructure, mobility, sports, and culture to accommodate thousands of visitors and meet FIFA standards.
Key Infrastructure Projects
- Estadio Azteca: Temporarily renamed the Estadio Ciudad de México, it will host the opening match on June 11, 2026. The renovation includes modernized access points, VIP zones, advanced irrigation technology, connectivity upgrades, and hybrid turf technology with an investment exceeding 3.0 billion pesos.
- Aeropuerto Internacional (AICM): An 8.5 billion pesos investment will improve runways, terminals, baggage systems, lighting, and construct a pedestrian bridge at Terminal 2 for better access to key roadways.
Mobility and Urbanism
Mexico City’s plan includes revitalizing the El Ajolote Light Rail, expanding the trolebús, upgrading Metro lines 1 and 3, and developing the “La Gran Tenochtitlán” cycling route. The Cetram Universidad, Tasqueña, and Huipulco will be improved, along with vial and hydrological works in Santa Úrsula and Huipulco.
Culture, Tourism, and Legacy
The Historic Center will be illuminated over 48 kilometers, iconic buildings like the National Art Museum and the Angel of Independence will be adorned in green, and the Zócalo will host Fan Fests with cultural, sporting events, and screenings. Over 5 million tourists are expected to visit.
Monterrey: Countdown, Trust, and Global Experience
In northern Mexico, Nuevo León is preparing with an integrated strategy combining promotion, public works, citizen participation, and celebration.
Campaign Launch and Official Countdown Clock
On June 11, 2025—exactly one year before the World Cup begins—Governor Samuel García launched the official countdown clock during a mass event at Parque Fundidora. He introduced the “Ponte Nuevo” campaign, aiming to project Nuevo León as a modern, secure, and vibrant host state. The event featured a free concert by Grupo Frontera and the unveiling of Nuevo León’s official World Cup emblem.
Infrastructure and Organization
- Estadio BBVA (Estadio Monterrey): Home to Club Santos Laguna, it will be temporarily renamed Estadio Monterrey and host three group stage matches and one round-of-16 game on June 29, 2026.
- FIDEFIFA Trust: The state government established a trust to plan and execute strategic projects related to the World Cup, focusing on mobility, urban infrastructure, air connectivity, and tourism promotion.
Tourism and Training
- Overbooked Hotels: With over 21,000 lodging spaces, a 40% to 60% increase in accommodation demand is expected. Airbnb and local authorities suggest small and medium-sized businesses can benefit from the tourist flow.
- Training and Hospitality: Business chambers like Canaco, Canirac, and Coparmex collaborate with the Tourism and Economy secretariats to train in English, enhance service practices, and prevent discrimination. The restaurant sector prepares to cater to international visitors, backed by local restaurants’ recognition in the Michelin Guide.
- Tourism Offerings: New destinations and attractions, such as Museo La Milarca and Sealand-Monterrey aquarium, strengthen the state’s cultural and recreational offerings.
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Guadalajara: Pushing Tourism Limits and Urban Renovation
Guadalajara, Jalisco’s capital, will host four matches, including Mexico’s second game. An estimated one million people are expected to visit for that match alone.
Hotel Capacity and Expansion
- Maximum Occupancy: With 32,000 existing hotel rooms, the city anticipates being overwhelmed. Plans include opening seven more hotels by 2026 and a total of 24 new developments by 2028.
- FIFA Fan Festival: Held at Plaza Liberación in the historic center, it will feature projections, cultural events, gastronomy, and tourism experiences.
Renovation and Cultural Offerings
- Estadio Akron: The World Cup match venue, including Mexico’s game on June 18, 2026. Authorities confirm it meets the tournament’s technical and logistical requirements.
- Mercado de Abastos: The second-largest market in the country will be renovated as a tourist attraction, featuring upgraded plumbing, hydrolic concrete, lighting, and a C4 video surveillance system with over 200 cameras.
Tourism and Connectivity
Jalisco promotes itself as an all-inclusive destination with direct routes to over 30 international destinations, 82,000 state rooms, and attractions like magic towns and Puerto Vallarta. The state government aims to position Guadalajara as a sports and cultural tourism destination.
A Lasting Legacy
Through urban infrastructure, cultural experiences, and technological advancements, the 2026 FIFA World Cup in Mexico City, Guadalajara, and Monterrey is set to redefine the country’s global image.
