Estadio Akron in Guadalajara is preparing to become one of the venues for the 2026 World Cup. As announced by the Omnilife-Chivas group, the stadium’s owner, it will undergo a renovation worth over 250 million pesos (over 12.4 million $).

What will the renovation include?

The Omnilife-Chivas group has opted for a comprehensive renovation of Estadio Akron, focusing on key areas. Amaury Vergara, president and CEO of the group, and owner of the Guadalajara football club, emphasized that while the stadium is in good condition, the goal is to provide both international and national visitors with a top-tier experience.

The upgrades will include the installation of state-of-the-art LED lighting, a renewed sound system, and high-quality grass in accordance with FIFA standards. Additionally, high-speed Wi-Fi will be implemented throughout the stadium, making it the first stadium in Mexico with full connectivity for fans, even in the parking lot.

© Ismael Moreno

Fan experience

Estadio Akron will also leverage artificial intelligence (AI) and data analysis for stadium management. Vergara explained that machine learning tools have been developed to accurately predict attendance at matches while analyzing data with AI. Variables such as the opponent, match date, economic impact, and match history are being analyzed to improve security and even optimize resources and services offered as part of the fan experience. In the future, fans will be able to order food and drinks directly from their seats, buy official products by scanning a QR code, and even participate in interactive dynamic events in real-time.

© Patricio Saldivar

Temporary name changes

During the 2026 World Cup, stadiums that will serve as hosts must change their names according to FIFA regulations, which prohibit stadiums from being named after brands or sponsors. FIFA has announced that the stadiums will carry names related to the cities in which they are located.

In Mexico, Estadio Akron will change its name to Estadio Guadalajara when it becomes one of the World Cup venues. In Monterrey, Estadio BBVA will adopt the name Estadio Monterrey during the tournament. Meanwhile, Estadio Azteca, which will host the World Cup for the third time, will be renamed Estadio Ciudad de México.