There’s now a little less than a year and a half to go until the world’s biggest football tournament kicks off. New information and renderings reveal what Estadio Azteca — or rather, Estadio Banorte — will look like once the renovation is complete.

Preserving identity with a modern twist

One of the project’s main goals is to maintain the historic identity of the stadium. The iconic exterior columns will be refurbished and enhanced with special lighting to highlight the architecture during night matches. The most significant transformation is happening inside Estadio Banorte. The previous VIP area has been completely demolished. In its place, new stands will rise, with key operational areas above them – including new locker rooms, referee zones, hospitality suites, a press room, and other facilities designed to meet FIFA’s highest standards. On the opposite side, a three-story VIP building is under construction, offering restricted access and space for up to 1,500 people, including heads of state. This building will include luxury boxes and seating, elevating the stadium to a world-class level.

© Grupo Reforma

Cutting-edge technology and innovations – when will it be ready?

As part of the upgrade, the stadium will be equipped with a hybrid pitch, ensuring top-quality turf throughout the tournament. A transparent acrylic roof will be installed, capable of being illuminated for light shows. The venue will also feature new LED screens around the stands for real-time information, ads, and interactive content. Digital totems will act as smart information points for fans.

The construction team is working around the clock (24/7) to ensure the stadium is ready before the 2026 World Cup. Notably, the modernization focuses solely on the stadium interior – plans for a shopping mall and hotel have been dropped. For the first time, officials have shared an approximate completion date: February 2026.

According to Coyoacán mayor Giovani Gutiérrez, the stadium will offer some of the best conditions in the world – with new seating, European-style access, full digital connectivity, and full FIFA compliance.

© Grupo Reforma