2026 FIFA World Cup Venues: Mexico
- Lloyd Brown
- 2 hours ago
- 2 min read
Mexico has a long history with the World Cup. It is the first country to host FIFA World Cup matches in three separate years. It previously hosted events in 1970 and 1986. These events provided memories that include the tremendous World Cup Finals victories by soccer icons Pelé and Diego Maradona. The third time around should provide some equally strong memories. Three cities (Guadalajara, Monterrey, and Mexico City) will host matches during the 2026 FIFA World Cup competition.
Estadio BBVA, Monterrey MEX
Estadio BBVA opened in 2015. It was designed by the worldwide stadium design firm Populous. The seating capacity of the stadium is 53,529. Estadio BBVA is also known as the “Steel Giant” due to its unique metal exterior cladding. Another eye-catching element at this venue is the towering 6,000-foot-tall mountain known as Cerro de la Silla that overlooks the stadium. Estadio BBVA serves as the home pitch for CF Monterrey.
Estadio Akron, Guadalajara MEX
Estadio Akron opened in 2010 and has a capacity of 46,355. It was designed by the firm of HOK Mexico. The stadium serves as the home pitch for both Club Deportivo Guadalajara and Club Chivas. In the past, this stadium hosted the 2011 Pan American Games. Its unique features include five levels of grandstands and a roof that extends out over the seating areas to provide shade from the intense heat the area experiences. The stadium is also home to a museum celebrating the success of Club Chivas.
Estadio Azteca, Mexico City MEX
Estadio Azteca is the oldest and most famous of the three Mexican venues hosting 2026 FIFA World Cup matches. It was built in 1966 and served as the host venue for both the 1970 and 1986 FIFA World Cup matches.
The stadium hosted the soccer competition during the 1968 Mexico City Olympic Games. Estadio Azteca has enjoyed several NFL football games over the years. The stadium is also known as Estadio Banorte, and it serves as the home pitch for both Club America and the Mexican National team.
As the premier soccer venue in Mexico, the stadium is undergoing renovations prior to the World Cup competition. Its capacity will be increased from 84,000 to 90,000 for the tournament. The stadium is also adding several large LED viewing screens and extending the roof over the seating area to provide more shade for the spectators.
Note: During the 2026 FIFA World Cup competition, each stadium will be known by its geographic location instead of its usual corporate name. This is due to FIFA requirements that any local corporate sponsorship naming rights be hidden through the duration of the World Cup matches due to conflicts with FIFA’s own worldwide corporate sponsor agreements.
