The start date for the renovation of Estadio Azteca in preparation for the 2026 World Cup has been revealed. Initially, it was assumed that the work would begin after the Apertura 2023 tournament, whose final took place on December 17, 2023. However, this did not happen, and time is running out.

Delay in starting work

An investigation conducted by ESPN Deportes indicates that work has not yet started at Estadio Azteca because those responsible for this investment must obtain all necessary permits from the authorities. The Mexican government has not yet issued these permits, as it was necessary to wait for the Clausura 2024 tournament to conclude, which happened on May 26 with the final whistle of the second match of the grand final of the Mexican football league, where América faced Cruz Azul.

One of FIFA's requirements for World Cup venues is the absence of any legal issues that could prevent the renovation work on the stadiums where the tournament will be held. For this reason, renovation work at Estadio Azteca will only begin after the Clausura 2024 tournament concludes. According to information provided on the TUDN Insiders program, this will happen on May 31.

Another issue that posed a challenge for those responsible for the property located in Mexico City was the dispute with the suite owners.

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Scope of renovation

The renovation will include refurbishing the stadium facade and installing LED lighting. The interior of the facility will also be updated: new locker rooms will be built under the suites, along with a tunnel for the players. High-resolution LED screens will be installed throughout the stadium, and the seats in the stands will be replaced.

The original project planned for the construction of a parking lot, hotel, and shopping center, but this was changed due to opposition from residents near Estadio Azteca, who were concerned about water shortages.

During the renovation, Club América will play their home games at Ciudad de los Deportes stadium, sharing it with Cruz Azul and Atlante. The renovation of Estadio Azteca will take approximately 18 months and cost around 2 billion Mexican pesos (about €110 million).

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