Mexico City is gearing up to host the much anticipated opening match of the 2026 FIFA World Cup on Thursday, with the renowned and newly-renovated Azteca Stadium set to make history as the first venue to stage three editions of the tournament, with Mexican fans eagerly looking forward to welcoming the world.
The expanded 2026 tournament is set to be the biggest ever World Cup, featuring a record number of 48 teams and seeing the competition hosted by three nations for the first time, with games taking place from June 11 to July 19.
Mexico is one of three hosts alongside the United States and Canada, with the country staging 13 matches across Mexico City, Guadalajara and Monterrey.
The Azteca stadium has hosted the World Cup final on two previous occasions, including in 1970 when Brazilian legend Pele inspired his team to victory and again in 1986 as Argentinian icon Diego Maradona made his mark. Ahead of this year's tournament, the historic venue has undergone major renovation work over the past 20 months.
With the opening day nearing, preparations around the stadium, including commercial facilities, transport hubs, and security checkpoints, are mostly completed. Many fans in football-loving Mexico simply can't wait for the action to get started.
"We're excited that the World Cup is about to begin. We're happy to welcome many foreign fans. Mexico City is hosting the World Cup again after many years, and we're really looking forward to it," said a local resident.
Given an event of this scale, Mexico has activated a comprehensive security plan for the World Cup. In addition to increased police deployment, drone patrols, aerial surveillance, bomb detection, and emergency response units are now fully operational. During the tournament, a multi-layered security system will be in place around the stadiums and at key transport hubs.
Meanwhile, as more international visitors are expected, Mexico City's airports, transport networks, and public services are also being upgraded, with the city now ready to welcome the world.
"If I ever make it to the World Cup, I'm definitely taking the light rail," said a local resident.
Fans eager as Mexico City set for historic FIFA World Cup opener
