Collaborative Efforts for the FIFA World Cup 2026
Morelos is actively working in collaboration with the federal government, local businesses, and event organizers to determine how its sports infrastructure and airport can contribute to the development of the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The state’s secretary of tourism, Daniel Altafi, stated in an interview with El Economista, that Morelos is strategizing to capitalize on the tourism benefits offered by the tournament.
Developing Consolidated Tourism Packages
Morelos aims to create comprehensive tourism packages that will capture the expected economic spillover from the World Cup games and opening ceremony in Mexico City in 2026. The state is already forming alliances with the Mexico City and Guerrero entities to establish regional routes aligned with the new strategies of the Mexican Secretariat of Tourism (SECTUR).
Morelos’ Relevant Sports Infrastructure
Altafi mentioned that Morelos has relevant sports infrastructure and is actively negotiating to become an attractive option for international teams and delegations. The state aspires to serve as a training ground for some international teams participating in the World Cup.
Morelos’ Pueblos Mágicos Initiative
Morelos has been selected as one of the seven pioneering states in developing community tourism experiences, which will be showcased at the upcoming Tianguis Turístico in Acapulco. The state aims to create integrated tourism products that include cultural, gastronomic, and nature experiences for visitors attending the World Cup.
Strengthening Pueblos Mágicos
Following guidelines from Marte Molina, the SECTUR’s General Director of Destination Management and Linkage, Morelos is working to ensure its Pueblos Mágicos (Magical Towns) preserve and enhance their unique tourism attributes. This involves updating the national catalog of Magical Towns with rigorous technical dossiers meeting federal program requirements.
Morelos’ Magical Towns
Morelos boasts four Magical Towns: Tepoztlán, Tlayacapan, Tlaltizapán, and Xochitepec. A collaboration agreement has been established where the state, through its Secretariat of Tourism, will make the largest financial contribution. This model focuses on providing continuous technical support to local committees and municipal tourism directors.
Rutas Mágicas de Color
Morelos has initiated the “Rutas Mágicas de Color” (Magical Color Routes) in Tepoztlán and Tlayacapan, incorporating artistic interventions and beautification projects. These efforts are complemented by the preservation of traditions, shifting the focus from alcohol consumption to family-oriented and authentic cultural experiences.
Key Questions and Answers
- What is Morelos doing to capitalize on the 2026 FIFA World Cup? Morelos is collaborating with federal and local entities to determine how its sports infrastructure and airport can contribute to the tournament’s development.
- Which states are part of Morelos’ tourism alliance? Morelos is forming alliances with the Mexico City and Guerrero entities to establish regional routes.
- What is Morelos’ strategy for its Pueblos Mágicos? Morelos aims to preserve and enhance the unique tourism attributes of its Magical Towns by updating the national catalog and providing continuous technical support to local committees.
- What initiatives are being implemented in Morelos’ Magical Towns? Morelos has launched the “Rutas Mágicas de Color” in Tepoztlán and Tlayacapan, focusing on artistic interventions, beautification projects, and preserving traditions.
