Mexico speeds up preparations for the 2026 World Cup

Mexico tăng tốc chuẩn bị World Cup 2026 - Ảnh 1. — The 2026 World Cup will take place in the US, Canada and Mexico. Photo: IT

According to a VNA correspondent in Mexico, the Mexico City government said it is implementing 30 key infrastructure projects around the Azteca Stadium - where the opening ceremony will take place on June 11 - with a total investment of more than 6,000 billion pesos (about 335 million USD). Investment items include upgrading traffic, urban planning, improving security and lighting systems, and building a new market for more than 750 small traders affected by the area's planning.

Speaking about the preparations, Mexico City Mayor Clara Brugada emphasized: “We are not only preparing for a sporting event, but also preparing to improve the urban appearance, building the image of a modern, safe and friendly Mexico.” She affirmed that the progress of the projects is being “monitored daily” to ensure completion on time.

The Azteca Stadium is undergoing a hybrid turf upgrade, VIP area improvements and access systems, which are expected to increase capacity to around 87,000 spectators. The Mexican Sports Ministry said the entire renovation must meet “FIFA technical standards”, particularly in terms of security, communications and medical capabilities.

In Guadalajara, the capital of Jalisco state, local authorities said the expected number of visitors during the tournament could reach more than 1 million, with the Mexico match alone attracting up to 200,000 people. The city has planned to add seven new hotels before the tournament and develop 24 more accommodations by 2028 to meet long-term demand.

In Monterrey, the capital of Nuevo León state, the government is launching a special World Cup investment fund, focusing on expanding the international airport, improving transport links and upgrading service areas around the BBVA Stadium. “Monterrey will be a gateway to the world; we see this as an opportunity to position the city as the leading economic and sports center in the region,” Governor Samuel García said at a recent press conference.

Meanwhile, many experts and scholars also highly appreciate Mexico's efforts. Dr. Carlos Arce, a sports economics expert at UNAM University, commented: "The 2026 World Cup can create economic effects that spread over many years, especially for tourism, logistics and trade in services. If used well, Mexico can achieve a growth rate of tourism revenue of 10-15% in the year of the event."

According to a study by Deloitte in collaboration with Airbnb, hosts in Mexico could earn more than $25 million from shared accommodation platforms during the tournament. In addition, the aviation and transportation industries are expected to increase capacity by 8-12%, while the food and beverage and entertainment industries are expected to increase revenue by about 20% over the same period.

However, the preparations have also come with challenges. Many fans have reported technical problems with FIFA’s ticket registration system, causing difficulties for domestic users. Mexican officials have advised fans to “be patient and follow official instructions” and are working with FIFA to improve the system.

Observers say Mexico’s success lies not only in the quality of its infrastructure, but also in its ability to ensure security, manage international tourist flows, and promote cultural values and the hospitality of its people. The country’s Ministry of Tourism says it is implementing training programs in foreign languages, services, and tourist safety for tens of thousands of workers in the industry.

Hosting the World Cup for the third time after 1970 and 1986, Mexico hopes the 2026 tournament will be a “milestone of transformation”, demonstrating its organizational capacity and creating a foundation for sustainable development for tourism and the urban economy in the following years.

Source: https://bvhttdl.gov.vn/mexico-tang-toc-chuan-bi-world-cup-2026-20251105090405754.htm