A cathedral of football

The Estadio Azteca in Mexico City is one of the most storied grounds in the sport. In 2026 it makes history as the first stadium to host matches at three World Cups, after 1970 and 1986, and it has been chosen to stage the opening game on 11 June.

Moments etched in memory

The Azteca hosted the 1970 final, where Brazil’s side built around Pelé is often called the greatest team ever. In 1986 it staged the final again, and earlier saw Diego Maradona’s “Hand of God” and his “Goal of the Century” against England in the quarter-final.

• 1970: World Cup final (Brazil)
• 1986: World Cup final and Maradona’s magic
• 2026: opening match

Altitude and atmosphere

Sitting more than 2,200 metres above sea level, the Azteca is a notoriously demanding venue for visiting teams. Combined with a passionate home crowd, it gives Mexico a genuine edge — and a spectacular stage on which to launch the tournament.