The Mexican national team will depart the Azteca Stadium as renovations begin ahead of the World Cup
The Mexican national team is set to bid farewell to its iconic home, the Aztec Stadium, as renovation work moves forward in preparation for the 2026 World Cup. This championship will be shared with the United States and Canada, marking a milestone moment in North American football history. Fans hold onto hopeful memories as the team plans one final phase at the venue before the transformation begins. (Goal)
The Azteca Stadium, a colossal arena steeped in memorable moments for Mexican and global football, will close its doors for the last time in December before undergoing upgrades designed to elevate the stadium to international standards and deliver an even more spectacular experience for spectators during the World Cup. (Goal)
Azteca Stadium redevelopment: timeline, scope, and envisioned design
The renovation program, scheduled to run from 2024 through 2026, will overhaul the stadium’s infrastructure, introduce cutting-edge technology, and improve amenities for fans. The aim is to preserve the stadium’s rich heritage while ensuring it meets modern expectations and can host the 2026 showcase with pride. (Goal)
Fans can expect a memorable send-off as the national team completes its last match at the Azteca Stadium before the renovations begin, with fixtures planned during the November FIFA international window. The matches are also pivotal for the national side’s path to the 2024 Copa America, emphasizing the strategic importance of this transitional period. (Goal)
Within the federation, planning is underway to identify potential venues for home and away fixtures during the renovation period. GOAL examines how El Tri might distribute games across the country while the Coloso de Santa Úrsula undergoes upgrades. (Goal)
MATCHES IN OTHER CITIES ACROSS MEXICO
As a primary option, Mexico could stage several matches at major domestic venues, including San Luis, Mazatlán, Toluca, and Torreón. While nothing has been finalized, these possibilities are being explored by the Mexican Football Federation to keep the team active on the road. (Goal)
Strategically, touring the country before the World Cup, with games hosted at the three main 2026 venues in Guadalajara, Mexico City, and Monterrey, would align with preparations and fan engagement goals. (Goal)
GAMES IN THE UNITED STATES
Given geographic proximity and a large Mexican-American fan base, playing in the United States remains a persistent option. When the national team appears on U.S. soil, attendance tends to reach full capacity, underscoring the enduring appeal of these fixtures. (Goal)
From an economic perspective, the U.S. option is often the most viable. Large gate receipts, combined with significant television and advertising interest, make these matches highly attractive for broadcasters and sponsors alike, influencing the federation’s planning. (Goal)
Source: Goal