2026 FIFA World Cup in Mexico: Host Cities, Stadiums, and Many More
Mexico will host FIFA World Cup matches for the third time in history in 2026, joining the United States and Canada as co-hosts of the first 48-team World Cup. From June 11 to July 19, 2026, Mexico will stage 13 matches across three cities: Mexico City, Guadalajara and Monterrey.
This guide covers host cities and stadiums, Mexico’s match schedule, TV broadcasters and streaming options, fan zones, ticket information, travel guidance and important dates.
Host Cities and Stadiums
Mexico will host World Cup matches in three cities: Mexico City, Guadalajara and Monterrey. All venues are being upgraded for the tournament while maintaining their historic football tradition.
| City | Stadium | Approx. Capacity | World Cup Matches | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mexico City | Estadio Azteca | 90,000 | 5 | Opening match, historic venue |
| Guadalajara | Estadio Akron | 48,000 | 4 | One Mexico match |
| Monterrey | Estadio BBVA | 53,500 | 4 | Group and knockout matches |
Mexico City – Estadio Azteca
Estadio Azteca is one of the most iconic stadiums in world football. It hosted two World Cup finals, in 1970 and 1986, making it the only venue in history to host multiple World Cup finals. It will again host the opening match in 2026.
Renovations and Upgrades
The stadium will hold about 90,000 spectators after renovations. Upgrades include modernized changing rooms, expanded hospitality zones, new LED lighting and improved infrastructure. The renovation cost is approximately $100 million and is scheduled to finish in early 2026.
Location and Atmosphere
Located in the Santa Úrsula area in southern Mexico City, Estadio Azteca sits at 7,200 feet above sea level. The altitude and 90,000 passionate fans make it one of the most intimidating venues in world football. Club América and the Mexican national team use Azteca as their home stadium.
What to Do in Mexico City
Visitors can explore Teotihuacan’s pyramids, Xochimilco’s colorful trajineras, the National Museum of Anthropology and world-famous street food and dining options across the city.
Guadalajara – Estadio Akron
Estadio Akron is located in Zapopan, near Guadalajara, and opened in 2010. It is the home of Chivas, one of Mexico’s most popular clubs.
World Cup Role and Upgrades
The stadium will host four World Cup matches, including one featuring Mexico. The government has allocated $50 million for upgrades focused on improving fan facilities, technology systems and security infrastructure.
City and Culture
Guadalajara is the birthplace of mariachi and the center of tequila production. Visitors can enjoy authentic Jalisco dishes like birria and tortas ahogadas, explore historic plazas and visit nearby tequila distilleries.
Monterrey – Estadio BBVA
Estadio BBVA, known as “El Gigante de Acero” (The Steel Giant), opened in 2015 and serves as the home of C.F. Monterrey.
World Cup Role and Improvements
The stadium accommodates around 53,500 spectators and will host three group matches and one knockout game. Monterrey is investing $50 million in upgrades and developing a “FIFA Corridor” connecting public spaces to the stadium with improved transit and walkways.
City and Surroundings
Monterrey sits at the base of the Sierra Madre Oriental mountains, offering impressive scenery. The city features modern art museums, large parks and famous northern Mexican cuisine like carne asada and cabrito.
How Many Matches Will Be Played in Mexico?
Mexico will host 13 of the 104 matches in the 2026 World Cup.
| City | Stadium | Number of Matches |
|---|---|---|
| Mexico City | Estadio Azteca | 5 |
| Guadalajara | Estadio Akron | 4 |
| Monterrey | Estadio BBVA | 4 |
| Mexico Total | 13 |
Mexico National Team Schedule and Match Locations
Mexico is placed automatically into Group A, and because the opening match is at Estadio Azteca, Mexico will play the first match of the tournament.
Mexico’s Confirmed Group Stage Matches
| Match | Date | Stadium | City | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | June 11, 2026 | Estadio Azteca | Mexico City | Opening match |
| 2 | June 17, 2026 | Estadio Azteca | Mexico City | Second group match |
| 3 | June 18, 2026 | Estadio Akron | Guadalajara | Third group match |
If Mexico advances, additional matches may be played in the United States or Canada depending on the knockout bracket.
TV Broadcasters and Streaming in Mexico
Televisa and TV Azteca share the rights to broadcast the World Cup in Mexico.
Televisa Channels
Canal de las Estrellas Canal 5 TUDN
TV Azteca Channels
Azteca 7 Azteca Uno Azteca Deportes
Both networks will broadcast all Mexico matches, as well as major knockout fixtures and the opening ceremony.
Streaming Options
ViX (TelevisaUnivision) TV Azteca digital platforms Izzi, Totalplay and Sky México apps
Further broadcast schedules will be confirmed closer to the tournament.
Tournament Format and Match Calendar
The 2026 World Cup expands to 48 teams with a total of 104 matches. The new Round of 32 is introduced, replacing the previous direct progression from the group stage to the Round of 16.
| Stage | Number of Matches | Dates |
|---|---|---|
| Group Stage | 48 | June 11–27 |
| Round of 32 | 16 | June 30–July 3 |
| Round of 16 | 8 | July 5–8 |
| Quarter-finals | 4 | July 11–12 |
| Semi-finals | 2 | July 15–16 |
| Final | 1 | July 19 |
The final will be held at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey.
Fan Zones and Public Viewing Areas
Mexico will host FIFA Fan Festivals in each of its three World Cup cities.
Mexico City – Zócalo: Capacity over 100,000, daily viewing, concerts, food and cultural events. Guadalajara – Plaza Liberación: Mariachi performances, regional dishes and large public screens. Monterrey – Parque Fundidora: Scenic park with room for over 40,000 fans and northern Mexican food.
All fan zones are free and broadcast every World Cup match.
Tickets: Buying Guide and Price Expectations
FIFA sells tickets in three phases through FIFA.com/tickets. Fans should avoid unofficial sellers.
Phase 1: Lottery-based application (late 2025) Phase 2: First-come, first-served (early 2026) Phase 3: Last-minute sales (June 2026)
Tickets are digital and require a valid ID at stadium entry.
Estimated Ticket Prices
| Category | Seat Location | Mexico Matches (USD) | Other Matches (USD) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Category 1 | Best midfield seats | 200–500 | 150–350 |
| Category 2 | Corner and side seats | 100–250 | 75–200 |
| Category 3 | Behind the goals | 50–150 | 30–100 |
Opening match tickets at Estadio Azteca will be among the most expensive.
Travel and Accommodation Tips
Getting to the Host Cities
Mexico City: MEX and AIFA airports Guadalajara: GDL airport Monterrey: MTY airport
Booking flights and hotels 6–9 months in advance is strongly recommended.
Hotel prices will range from roughly $80 to $600 per night during the tournament.
Transportation to Stadiums
Estadio Azteca is connected by the Metro and light rail. More buses and trains will run during the tournament. In Guadalajara and Monterrey, fans can use taxis, Uber and official shuttles.
Arriving two to three hours before kickoff is recommended.
Safety
Mexico will increase police presence in all host cities. Fans should use official transportation, remain aware of surroundings and call 911 for emergencies.
Why the 2026 World Cup Is a Major Moment for Mexico
Mexico becomes the first nation to host three men’s World Cups. Estadio Azteca will host the tournament’s opening match for the third time. The expanded 48-team format adds more drama, more knockout matches and more global attention.
The tournament will bring approximately 5.5 million visitors and generate an estimated $3 billion for the Mexican economy. Infrastructure upgrades and public improvements will benefit the country long after the World Cup ends.
Important Dates to Remember
December 5, 2025: World Cup draw Early 2026: Direct ticket sales March 2026: Estadio Azteca reopens June 11, 2026: Opening match in Mexico City June 17, 2026: Mexico’s second match June 18, 2026: Mexico’s third match in Guadalajara July 19, 2026: World Cup Final in New Jersey
2026 FIFA World Cup in Mexico FAQs
When does the World Cup start in Mexico?
The tournament runs from June 11 to July 19, 2026, with Mexico hosting 13 matches.
How many matches will be played in Mexico?
Thirteen matches: five in Mexico City, four in Guadalajara and four in Monterrey.
Where is the opening match?
Estadio Azteca in Mexico City hosts the opening match on June 11, 2026.
Has Mexico hosted the World Cup before?
Yes, in 1970 and 1986. Mexico will be the first country to host three men’s World Cups.
What group is Mexico in?
Mexico is in Group A and plays the opening match automatically.
Can fans watch without tickets?
Yes. Free Fan Festivals will be held in the Zócalo, Parque Fundidora and Plaza Liberación.
Do Americans need a visa?
No. US citizens receive a 180-day tourist permit on arrival.
