Will Antoine Griezmann make it to the 2026 World Cup with France? We analyze statistics, current events, and his role with Les Bleus on their way to the most important tournament on the planet.
Home
»
World Cup 2026
»
HOW MANY GAMES WILL MEXICO CITY HOST AT THE 2026 WORLD CUP?
The 2026 World Cup will be historic for many reasons: 48 teams, three host countries, and a packed schedule of matches. But there's one venue that evokes special emotions in football fans: Mexico City. How many games will be played at the legendary Azteca Stadium? Which stages will it host? In this article, we'll tell you everything: official figures, anecdotes, World Cup history, and what it means for Mexico to once again be a key player in the most important tournament on the planet.
2026 World Cup Schedule at Azteca Stadium
FIFA has revealed the official schedule and Mexico City will have the honor of being one of the 16 host cities for the 2026 World Cup. But it's not just any venue: it's the only one that has hosted the World Cup three times (1970, 1986 and now 2026). And as such, it will play a key role in the first phase of the tournament.
Number of matches and key dates
Total matches in Mexico City: 3 group stage matches
Phase: First round (no round of 16 or quarterfinals at this venue)
Stadium: Azteca Stadium, with a capacity of over 83,000 people
Mexico's opening match: Confirmed at the Azteca
Dates: Between the 11th and the June 27, 2026
Mexico City will be one of the three Mexican host cities (along with Guadalajara and Monterrey). But the Azteca Stadium has an added bonus: it will be the first in history to have hosted three men's World Cups.
Fun fact: In 1970, the Azteca saw Pelé lift his last World Cup. In 1986, it witnessed the "Game of the Century" between Italy and Germany, and Maradona's crowning achievement. What legendary moment will 2026 bring us?
Renovations and legacy of the most famous stadium in America
To live up to the standards of a world-class event, the Azteca Stadium is undergoing a complete renovation. These works not only aim to improve the fan experience, but also to meet FIFA's demanding standards in terms of safety, accessibility, and technology.
What's new at the Azteca Stadium
Complete renovation of locker rooms, VIP boxes, and press area
Modernization of entrances and restrooms
Giant 360-degree screens and surround sound system
5G connectivity and WiFi coverage throughout the stadium
State-of-the-art LED lighting system
Work is also underway on an adjacent commercial area with restaurants, official merchandise stores, and even an interactive museum of Mexican soccer history. Everything is expected to be ready by mid-2025.
Another important detail: Public transportation will be reinforced with more Metro and Metrobús units, as well as special routes for match days. There are even plans to enable a "Fan Bus" from key points in the city.
Extra fact: Azteca Stadium will have an exclusive area for international fans with translation services, multilingual medical assistance, and solar charging stations for mobile devices.
A city vibrating with football and history
Beyond the matches, Mexico City is preparing to welcome thousands of tourists and fans from all over the world with open arms. It will be a unique opportunity to showcase their culture, gastronomy, hospitality, and passion for football.
What can a fan do in Mexico City?
Visit the Zócalo, where an official Fan Fest will be set up with giant screens and free activities
Explore the Football Museum at the Azteca Stadium
Enjoy typical food in markets like Coyoacán or San Juan
Climb Chapultepec Castle and get the best view of the city
Watch live matches from terraces and sports bars in La Roma, Condesa, or According to projections from the Ministry of Tourism, more than 1.2 million visitors are expected to arrive in Mexico City during the World Cup. An economic impact of over $500 million is estimated. Furthermore, the city will be a key broadcast hub, with more than 60 international networks operating from mobile studios, drones, and improvised sets at iconic landmarks such as the Angel of Independence. Final fact: every match played at the Azteca Stadium will be televised in more than 180 countries and in more than 20 languages. So every goal, every play, and every emotion experienced in the Mexican capital will be seen around the world. In short, Mexico City will host three matches in the 2026 World Cup, but its significance goes far beyond the number: it will be a symbol, a symbol of history, and a symbol of passion. And as always, its people will be the heart and soul of the spectacle.
YOU MAY ALSO BE INTERESTED