FIFA President Gianni Infantino has met with Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum to review preparations for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, where a historic milestone was officially confirmed: the iconic Estadio Azteca will host the tournament’s opening match on June 11, 2026.
With this decision, the “Colossus of Santa Úrsula” cements its place in football history as the first stadium ever to stage three World Cup openers, having previously done so in 1970 and 1986.
“Mexico will experience an extraordinary moment; it will have the pride of hosting the opening,” President Sheinbaum shared on her social media platforms following the meeting.
During the visit, Infantino presented Sheinbaum with a symbolic gift—a large-scale replica of the ticket for the opening match. The ticket bears the number one seat, signifying Mexico’s place of honor in this historic event.
Sheinbaum expressed gratitude for the gesture, highlighting that the inauguration at the Azteca will showcase Mexico at the heart of world football.
The confirmation puts Mexico firmly in the global spotlight, not only as a co-host nation but also as the stage for an unprecedented chapter in the game’s history.
