Estadio Azteca in Mexico City reopened at the end of March 2026 following refurbishment that reduced its capacity from over 100,000 to 83,000 seats [1, 2, 3]. The stadium will host the opening match of the 2026 FIFA World Cup on June 11, featuring Mexico against South Africa [1, 2, 3].
Only 13 of the tournament’s 104 matches will be played in Mexico, reflecting the multi-country hosting format shared with the United States and Canada [1, 2, 3]. Mexico becomes the first nation to host World Cup matches at three separate tournaments, having previously hosted in 1970 and 1986 [1, 2, 3].
Estadio Azteca holds a historic place in football, with legends Pelé and Diego Maradona lifting the World Cup trophy there in 1970 and 1986 respectively [1, 2, 3]. Jorge Valdano once said of Maradona, "Really, he is extraordinary. Having Maradona is like having a miracle that repeats itself in every game" [1]. Andrew Downie reflected on the 1970 tournament as ``the first World Cup to be held outside of Europe or South America'' that introduced live color broadcasts and new rules including substitutes and yellow and red cards [1]. Bobby Moore commented on the Mexico 1970 World Cup as if it had been staged for Pelé's benefit [1].
Although Mexico hosts the opening game and 12 other matches, the final will be played in a National Football League stadium in New Jersey, USA [1, 2, 3]. The June 11 opener at Estadio Azteca will mark the official start of a World Cup spanning three countries and 104 games.
The reopening of Estadio Azteca and the scheduled kickoff between Mexico and South Africa on June 11 are the next key events as preparations continue for the tournament.