Estadio Azteca: All you need to know about venue of FIFA World Cup 2026 opening match
(Courtesy : FIFA)
Estadio Azteca will host the FIFA World Cup 2026 opening match between Mexico and South Africa.
The FIFA World Cup 2026 begins on June 11, with co-hosts Mexico taking on South Africa at the iconic Estadio Azteca in Mexico City. The recently renovated stadium in the Mexican capital city is one of the 16 venues that will be used in this expanded iteration of football’s biggest tournament.
This is a stadium of many monikers. Named Estadio Banorte for sponsorship reasons, it will be called “Mexico City Stadium” (Estadio Ciudad de Mexico) during the World Cup, as FIFA does not allow corporate sponsor names.
Estadio Azteca is, by all accounts, a venue steeped in Mexican football culture. It is the largest stadium in Latin America and the eighth-largest in the world. However, its significance extends much further than that.
By hosting the Mexico vs South Africa match, Estadio Azteca will become the first venue to host three FIFA World Cup opening matches. This is the home to some of the most memorable moments in World Cup history.
Pele lifted the title with Brazil here in 1970, and Diego Maradona scored twice against England in 1986 – the Hand of God and the Goal of the Century. The Game of the Century – the 1970 World Cup semi-final between Italy and West Germany – was also played on this ground.
The 60-year-old stadium has undergone significant renovations to prepare itself for the upcoming World Cup. It was closed in May 2024, with several new features being installed over the next two years. Estadio Azteca hosted Mexico’s goalless draw against Portugal in a warm-up friendly in March 2026, announcing its readiness to host five World Cup matches.
Estadio Azteca is one of the three Mexican venues hosting matches in the FIFA World Cup 2026. The other two are Monterrey’s Estadio BBVA and Guadalajara’s Estadio Akron.
Let’s dive into all the details you need to know about Estadio Azteca:
Estadio Azteca capacity
Following renovations, Estadio Azteca has a capacity of 87,523, making it the second-largest venue being used for the FIFA World Cup 2026. The only venue with a larger capacity is AT&T Stadium in Dallas, Texas.
Estadio Azteca home teams
Estadio Azteca is the home ground of the Mexican national football team and has hosted El Tri in two previous World Cups – 1970 and 1986. It is also the home of Liga MX side Club America.
In addition to football, the stadium also hosts one NFL game each season as part of the International Series.
FIFA World Cup 2026 matches that will take place at Estadio Azteca
- Mexico vs South Africa (Group A) on June 11
- Uzbekistan vs Colombia (Group K) on June 17
- Czech Republic vs Mexico (Group A) on June 24
- Round of 32 clash on June 30
- Round of 16 clash on July 5
How many FIFA World Cups have been played at Estadio Azteca?
Estadio Azteca has been used at three FIFA World Cups – 1970, 1986, and 2026.
What is the capacity of Estadio Azteca for FIFA World Cup 2026?
Following renovations, Estadio Azteca has a seating capacity of 87,523, making it one of the largest venues at FIFA World Cup 2026.
When was Estadio Azteca opened?
Estadio Azteca was first opened in 1966, with the first match being played on May 29.
How many FIFA World Cup 2026 matches will be played at Estadio Azteca?
Estadio Azteca will host five matches, including the FIFA World Cup 2026 opening match and two knockout-stage fixtures.
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Sushruta has spent over two years covering football, with a particular focus on Indian and international competitions. Alongside football, he has reported on a variety of sports, bringing curiosity and perspective to every story. When he’s not following the action, he can usually be found binge-watching movies or getting lost in a good book.