Football is more than a sport—it’s a universal language that brings people together and shapes collective memories. As the FIFA World Cup 2026 approaches, Mexico aims to turn this passion into a driver for tourism. With 5.5 million international visitors expected, the country is launching a strategy that blends cultural promotion, major events, and upgraded infrastructure to extend the momentum far beyond the stadiums.
With over 90 years of history, the FIFA World Cup remains the most-watched sporting event in the world. In its last edition, the final between Argentina and France drew more than 1.42 billion viewers, and the tournament welcomed one million spectators to the stadiums.
Four years later, Mexico is preparing to host 13 matches across three cities—Mexico City, Guadalajara, and Monterrey—including the opening ceremony at Estadio Ciudad de México. This will be the third time the country hosts the tournament, and the first in a shared format with the United States and Canada. The Latin American nation is getting ready not only to welcome fans but also to showcase the richness of its tourist destinations to the world.
National Initiatives to Attract Visitors
The Ministry of Tourism plans to involve all Mexican states. Among the announced projects are demonstrations of the ancient Mesoamerican ballgame at archaeological sites, a football championship in the Pueblos Mágicos (small towns recognized for their cultural and traditional richness), and the “Rutas Mágicas de Color” (Magical Routes of Color) program aimed at beautifying tourist towns.
A gastronomic festival titled Mexico of My Flavors will be held in the capital from June 5 to July 22 at Campo Deportivo Militar Marte. The event will bring together all 32 Mexican states to showcase their best traditional cuisine, along with handicrafts, folk art, and immersive experiences.
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Infrastructure and Technological Innovation
Infrastructure is also being upgraded to meet the challenge of hosting thousands of visitors. In Mexico City, Estadio Azteca will be renovated to meet FIFA standards. In Guadalajara, Estadio Akron will host four matches, including one featuring the national team. The city is also advancing key projects: a new metro line to the stadium, airport expansion, and the renovation of the historic center.
To enhance the visitor experience, the government will launch the free app World Cup – Visit Mexico, offering practical information on transportation, weather, gastronomy, activities in the three host cities, and tourist routes across the country.
Football goes far beyond the pitch—it is shared memory, part of the cultural imagination, and in this case, an event that captures global attention. Fueled by passion, the 2026 World Cup becomes a unique platform for Mexico to highlight its tourism assets, regional diversity, cultural heritage, and renowned hospitality.
Photos: Mario Guzmán (EFE) | Monterrey FIFA World Cup 2026
