Preparations for the 2026 FIFA World Cup in Mexico City
The head of government of Mexico City, Clara Brugada Molina, detailed that the interventions will focus on mobility, urbanism, sports, and culture as preparations for the 2026 FIFA World Cup are underway.
Transportation Improvements
- Rehabilitation of the El Ajolote Light Rail with new trains and a train regulation system.
- Expansion of trolebús coverage with the new Silvestre de los Pedregales route, connecting 15 colonias to the Metro and Light Rail.
Urban Regeneration and Development
In the urban context, actions of regeneration are being carried out in Santa Úrsula, Pueblo de Santa Úrsula, and Pueblo de San Lorenzo Huipulco colonies. These include improvements in potable water supply and construction of stormwater collectors.
- Rehabilitation of the Centros de Transferencia Modal (Cetram) at Universidad, Tasqueña, and Huipulco stations.
- Pedestrian recovery of Acoxpa and transformation of the Estadio Azteca access road.
- Modernization of avenues and tourist areas, such as the Circuito Insurgentes and Bellas Artes-Garibaldi corridor, with improvements in lighting and urban furniture.
Integrated Mobility Plan
The Integrated Mobility Plan includes the creation of a 34 km long bicycle path called La Gran Tenochtitlán, connecting the Calzada de Tlalpan to the Zócalo. Additionally, a 1.5 km floating pedestrian bridge in Tlalpan will be constructed, along with the renovation of street lighting over 48 km in the Historic Center.
A Centrobús electric bus system will be established, covering iconic locations in the city. Brugada mentioned coordination with the Mexican government for improving all city access points.
Estadio Ciudad de México
Felix Aguirre, director of the Estadio Banorte and Host City, highlighted during the inauguration of the FIFA 2026 Committee that the remodeling of this historic venue, previously known as Estadio Azteca, represents an investment of over 2,000 million pesos. This investment aims to ensure its operation for the next 40 to 50 years, with an opening date set for March 28, 2026.
Mexico City’s Role in the 2026 FIFA World Cup
Mexico City will play a prominent role in the 2026 FIFA World Cup, hosting the opening match for the third time. During the event, 104 matches will be played across three countries and 15 cities, with five games scheduled in the capital from June 11 to July 19.
- June 11: Opening match
- Fase de grupos (Group stage) matches
- Elimination rounds on June 30 and July 5
The World Cup will bring over a month of global excitement to the city, as detailed by Brugada.
