The iconic Estadio Azteca is set to close its doors in the coming months to undergo renovations in preparation for the 2026 World Cup, where it will serve as a venue for the third time in its history. Given this, there will be no activities at the stadium for an extended period.

Effects of the renovation of Estadio Azteca

After several months of delay, everything is now in place for the renovation works to commence at Estadio Azteca. The goal is to ensure the stadium is in top condition to host World Cup matches for the third time in 2026, a tournament that will be co-hosted by Mexico, the United States, and Canada.

This renovation will mean that the two clubs that play their home matches at the stadium, América and Cruz Azul, will have to relocate to another venue for the next few months. It is anticipated that the Apertura 2023 will be the last tournament to be held at the stadium before it closes for at least 18 months.

The renovation will not only impact the Liga MX clubs but also the Mexican National Team, which has traditionally played its official matches at the Estadio Azteca. They will have to find an alternative venue until the 2026 World Cup begins. However, the team is planning a fitting farewell match.

Great motivation for last match at Estadio Azteca

The FIFA international break in November will be the last of 2023, during which Mexico will compete in the Quarterfinals of the Concacaf Nations League. If Mexico progresses further in the tournament, their next match would be in March, leaving no time for a farewell match at the Estadio Azteca if they were to reach the Nations League final.

October matches serve as preparation for the challenges awaiting the team in November, where they not only aim to reach the semifinals of the Nations League but also secure their qualification for the Copa América 2024. It's worth noting that Mexico hasn't participated in this tournament since its centennial edition in 2016, where they were knocked out in the Quarterfinals by Chile in a 7-0 defeat.