The legendary Estadio Azteca is undergoing one of the most important renovations in its history. It is becoming increasingly clear that the iconic venue is preparing for a return to the global football stage, with progress attracting strong interest both in Mexico and abroad.

Estadio Azteca and three World Cups

Estadio Azteca is preparing to write another chapter in its history as the only stadium in the world to host three FIFA World Cups — in 1970, 1986 and 2026. This distinction is a great honor, but also a major responsibility, requiring a comprehensive redevelopment of the venue.

The reopening of the stadium is scheduled for March 28, 2026, when Mexico will face Portugal in a friendly match. The game is intended to serve as a full-scale rehearsal ahead of the World Cup and a test of the stadium’s readiness to welcome 48 national teams from around the globe.

New pitch and progress of the renovation

One of the key elements of the modernization is the installation of a new hybrid pitch, designed to withstand intensive use, variable weather conditions and FIFA’s strict requirements. After the completion of the installation works, the first sections of grass have begun to cover the field, sending a clear signal to fans that the stadium is on the right path toward full readiness.

Images and updates on the progress have been widely shared on social media, with the restoration of the pitch becoming a symbol of the revival of the stadium’s heart.

Tweet ESTADIOSdb (MXESTADIOS) https://x.com/MXESTADIOS/status/2006029810057748865

— ESTADIOSdeMÉXICO (@MXESTADIOS) June 25, 2025

Stands, infrastructure and post-renovation capacity

At the same time, work is continuing on the stands and the stadium’s overall infrastructure. The installation of new seats is already at an advanced stage, particularly in the upper tiers, while the lower sections are being fitted with the stadium’s characteristic red seating.

The scope of the project also includes the installation of modern screens, advanced lighting systems, and the redevelopment of press areas and entrances to meet the highest international standards. Once the renovation is complete, Estadio Azteca is expected to accommodate around 90,000 spectators, offering significantly improved levels of comfort and safety.

Cost of the renovation and plans after the 2026 World Cup

The modernization of Estadio Azteca is a major financial undertaking, with costs estimated at approximately 3 billion pesos. The 2026 World Cup has acted as a catalyst to restore the stadium’s former prestige after years of gradual aging. Stadium authorities emphasize that the goal is not merely to prepare the venue for a few weeks of tournament action, but to create a modern sports and entertainment hub that will remain in intensive use long after the World Cup ends.

After the tournament, Estadio Azteca will be fully open to music and entertainment events, with concerts and large-scale shows scheduled to resume as early as 2027. The new pitch has been designed to handle heavy use, allowing sporting events and concerts to be combined without long recovery periods for the playing surface.

© Grupo Reforma