Mexico: 500 days to World Cup. How is Estadio Azteca preparing for tournament?
source: StadiumDB.com; author: Paulina Skóra
On January 27, the countdown will officially begin: exactly 500 days until the start of the FIFA World Cup, hosted by the United States, Mexico, and Canada. The opening match will take place at Estadio Azteca on June 11, 2026.
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A detailed infrastructure modernization plan is coming soon
In addition to the opening match, the Coloso de Santa Úrsula will host four additional games. Gabriela Cuevas, Mexico’s government representative to FIFA for World Cup preparations, gave an exclusive interview to RÉCORD to clarify key aspects of the third World Cup to be held in Mexico.
Regarding mobility and access to Estadio Azteca, Cuevas emphasized that significant changes are planned to improve transportation and infrastructure. While specific details of these efforts remain undisclosed, the newspaper confirmed that preparations include increasing the number of light rail trains operating along Calzada de Tlalpan, adjustments to traffic organization, the introduction of electric buses for fan transportation, and the creation of safety zones to prevent congestion near the stadium.
Cuevas also announced that Mexico City will soon reveal a broader infrastructure plan linked to the World Cup. It will be a very important announcement,
she noted, adding that the project takes into account commitments to local residents, particularly those living near Estadio Azteca and in the Santa Úrsula neighborhood.
Priority: safety
Unquestionably, safety is one of the most pressing concerns for both citizens and the tourists visiting Mexico every year, according to various public opinion studies. In response, the federal government is developing a comprehensive strategy to prepare for the World Cup. This plan addresses security during the tournament through coordination among Mexico, the United States, and Canada, as well as internal measures such as stricter visa controls, faster immigration processes to mitigate risks, and private-sector involvement.
Although safety remains a priority, Cuevas revealed that the topic was not discussed during the most recent meeting with FIFA President Gianni Infantino at the end of last year. Our conversation focused primarily on ways to strengthen collaboration for organizing the World Cup. We’ll be working closely with FIFA. We also discussed a possible visit by Gianni Infantino to Mexico, although no specific date has been set,
she said.
© ProtoplasmaKid (CC BY-SA 4.0)
Host cities to create special fan zones
For those unable to attend matches in person, Fan Fests organized in host cities will offer an excellent alternative. These areas will be entirely free to enter, allowing fans to watch tournament matches on large screens in specially designed spaces. Host cities have already identified locations for their Fan Fests. As of today, it has been confirmed that Mexico City will host its Fan Fest at the Zócalo. In Monterrey, an exciting event is planned at Parque Fundidora, while Guadalajara is set to hold its Fan Fest at Plaza Liberación, although this location still requires official approval.
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