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⚽ ¡Viva World Cup in México!

Updated: Jun 18

Your Ultimate Guide to the 2026 World Cup in Mexico (free to all and updated regularly)



Mexico is making history as the first nation to host the World Cup three times – and this time, it's going to be bigger, better, and more spectacular than ever!


⏰ The countdown to glory has officially begun! With exactly one year to go (as of June 2025), Mexico has kicked off the final preparations for what promises to be an unforgettable celebration of football and culture.


"This will be one of the most beautiful experiences we'll have as fans and as part of the organization," declared Zapopan Mayor Juan José Frangie Saade. "More than five billion people will be watching what happens during those nearly 40 days."


From June 11 to July 5, 2026, the beautiful game returns to the land of tacos, tequila, and tremendous football passion. With over 5 billion people expected to tune in globally, Mexico is preparing to welcome more than 5 million tourists for what promises to be the most technologically advanced and culturally immersive World Cup experience yet.


In this guide you will learn about:

⚽Three Cities, Three Dreams

⚽World Cup 2026: The Game-Changing Tournament

⚽World Cup 2026: Entire schedule

⚽The story behind  Guadalajara's Stunning World Cup Poster

⚽How to get tickets, press passes and volunteer

⚽Best Hotels Near Estadio Guadalajara (Akron)

⚽The "Copa del Mundo – Visit México" App

⚽Mexico Economic Impact

⚽Breaking the Curse

⚽Challenges and Transformations

⚽The Fans Hub: Join the Global Community

⚽World Cup Tickets Historical Prices Since 1994

⚽ World Cup 2026 Commemorative Coins


This isn't just about 104 matches across three countries – it's about Mexico's opportunity to showcase its warmth, hospitality, and football passion to the world. 🚀 Ready to be part of history? Start planning your Mexican World Cup adventure today and prepare for the most culturally immersive World Cup experience ever created.



🌎 World Cup 2026: The Game-Changing Tournament


The World Cup 2026 will make history as the 23rd World Cup and the first tournament to be hosted by three nations – Canada, Mexico, and the United States. This groundbreaking event will revolutionize football with several historic firsts:


🏆 Tournament Highlights:

  • First World Cup with 48 teams (expanded from 32)

  • 104 total matches across all three countries

  • Tournament runs from June 11 to July 19, 2026

  • 16 stadiums across the three host nations

  • First tournament to span four different time zones


⚽ Tournament Format:

  • Twelve groups of four teams each

  • Top two teams from each group plus eight best third-place teams advance to new Round of 32

  • All matches after group stage will be knockout format

  • Final draw scheduled for December 2025


📍 Mexico's Special Role:

  • Mexico becomes the first country to host the men's World Cup three times (1970, 1986, 2026)

  • Opening match features Mexico at Estadio Azteca in Mexico City on June 11, 2026

  • Mexico will play its group stage matches in Mexico City, Monterrey and Guadalajara

  • AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas will host the most matches (9) of any venue



🏟️ Three Cities, Three Dreams


Mexico will showcase its diverse beauty across three stunning host cities, each bringing its own unique flavor to the tournament:


🏛️ Mexico City – The pulsating heart of Mexican football, where the legendary Estadio Azteca will host the tournament's opening match. This iconic venue, where Pelé dazzled in 1970 and Maradona's "Hand of God" created history in 1986, is undergoing a massive $110 million renovation to expand capacity from 87,000 to 90,000 seats.


🎨 Guadalajara – The cultural capital of western Mexico, where the modern Estadio Akron (now Estadio Guadalajara) will host four thrilling matches, including Mexico's crucial second group-stage game on June 18. Located in the picturesque suburb of Zapopan, surrounded by the stunning Bosque La Primavera ecological reserve.


🏭 Monterrey – The industrial powerhouse of northern Mexico, ready to welcome fans to its state-of-the-art 53,500-capacity stadium that needs only minor upgrades, including a revolutionary pitch ventilation and oxygenation system that will be an important legacy from the World Cup.


🏦 Mexico Economic Impact


Mexico's portion of the World Cup: June 11 to July 5, 2026. Entire World Cup tournament: June 11 - July 19, 2026 (nearly 40 days total across all three countries).


This isn't just about 64 matches across three countries – it's about Mexico's opportunity to showcase its warmth, hospitality, and football passion to the world. As Tourism Secretary Josefina Rodríguez Zamora put it perfectly: "The objective is that visitors have such a positive experience that they say: 'I want to return to Mexico.'"


From the bustling streets of Mexico City to the cultural richness of Guadalajara and the modern energy of Monterrey, the 2026 World Cup in Mexico promises to be more than a tournament – it's going to be a celebration of everything that makes Mexico magical.


The economic impact of this World Cup is staggering:

  • 🏦 National economic impact: Over 70 billion pesos

  • 🌟 Jalisco state alone: Expected to generate 55 billion pesos

  • 👥 Visitor expectations: Over 200,000 people in Guadalajara alone

  • 🏪 Business participation: At least 44,000 economic units involved, including 26,000 restaurants


🏆 Breaking the Curse

Mexican fans have high hopes beyond just hosting a great tournament. After failing to advance beyond the group stage at Qatar 2022 – their worst World Cup performance since 1978 – the pressure is on to break the infamous "fifth-game" curse and reach the quarter-finals for the first time since 1986, the last time Mexico hosted the World Cup.


📱 Your Digital Companion: The "Copa del Mundo – Visit México" App


Here's where Mexico is truly innovating! The Mexican government is preparing a free mobile app that will be every football fan's best friend during the tournament. This isn't just any ordinary travel app – it's a comprehensive digital guide designed to turn your World Cup adventure into an unforgettable cultural journey.


🌟 What the app offers:

  • 📍 Real-time information on all three host cities

  • 🗺️ Over 30 specially designed tourist routes connecting you to hidden gems

  • 🌤️ Weather updates, mobility guides, and safe travel routes

  • 🌮 Gastronomic recommendations (and what to avoid!)

  • 🏥 Health services and consumer protection support

  • 🎉 Cultural events and local football championships

  • ✨ Exclusive content about Mexico's 177 Pueblos Mágicos (Magical Towns)


The genius behind this app? It's designed to spread the economic benefits of the World Cup beyond just the host cities, encouraging visitors to explore Mexico's incredible diversity from bustling markets to ancient ruins, from pristine beaches to vibrant mountain towns. Stay tune for its upcoming launch!


🎫 How to Get Your Tickets


⚠️ Important: Tickets for the 2026 World Cup are not yet on sale (likely available late 2025), and all official sales will be exclusively through FIFA. Here's your game plan:

  1. 📝 Register your interest on the FIFA website to receive updates

  2. 🎰 Watch for the lottery phase – the first sales will likely be a random selection process

  3. ⚡ Stay alert for first-come, first-served sales for remaining tickets

  4. 🥂 Consider hospitality packages for premium experiences. If you mention "TWIG" you'll get extra care from well known agent Nancy Moya who lives between California and Guadalajara (bilingual). Other FIFA options.

  5. 📢 Follow FIFA's official channels for announcements and avoid unofficial sellers


💰 World Cup Tickets Historical Prices Since 1994


Ticket prices have increased significantly since 1994. Thanks to extensive research by The World Cup Guide, we have fascinating insights into how ticket prices have evolved over three decades of tournaments.


🎫 How FIFA Prices World Cup Tickets:

  • Category 1: Middle of field (premium location)

  • Category 2: Slightly off to the sides

  • Category 3: Behind the goals

  • Category 4: Special pricing for host country residents (not available to international fans)


⚽ Match Type Pricing Structure: FIFA maintains consistent pricing across match types:

  • Opening Match (highest group stage price due to ceremony)

  • Group Stage matches

  • Round of 16

  • Quarterfinals

  • Semi-finals

  • 3rd Place match

  • Final (most expensive)


💡 Planning Tip: Based on historical trends, expect significant price increases compared to recent tournaments, especially for knockout stage matches. The opening match at Estadio Azteca will likely command premium pricing due to its ceremonial importance and Mexico's historic role as the first three-time host nation.


🙋‍♀️ Volunteer for World Cup 2026!


Yes, you can volunteer for FIFA events in Guadalajara (GDL)! The FIFA Volunteer Program is open to anyone 18 or older who wants to experience a FIFA tournament from a unique perspective. FIFA is actively seeking volunteers for the FIFA World Cup 26 in multiple locations, including Guadalajara.


🚀 How to Volunteer:

  1. 📝 Register on the FIFA Volunteer Platform - This is the central place to find information and apply for volunteer positions at FIFA events

  2. 🔔 Stay Updated - Registering allows you to receive the latest news and updates about volunteering opportunities, including those in Guadalajara

  3. ⏰ Check for Applications - Volunteer applications for the World Cup 26 will open in mid-August


📰 Media Professionals: Get Your Press Accreditation


Are you a journalist, photographer, or media professional looking to cover FIFA events in Guadalajara? Here's your complete guide to securing press accreditation for the World Cup 2026 and other FIFA events:


📝 Step-by-Step Accreditation Process:

1. 🌐 Register on the FIFA Media Hub

  • FIFA uses a centralized online platform, the FIFA Media Hub, for all media accreditation

  • Create your account on the FIFA Media Hub - only registered users can apply for accreditation

  • This is your gateway to covering FIFA tournaments and events

2. 📋 Submit Your Accreditation Form

  • Navigate to the specific tournament section (World Cup 2026) within the Media Hub

  • Complete the comprehensive accreditation form with all required information

  • Important: Confirmation is not first-come, first-served - all applications undergo review

3. 📄 Provide Supporting Documentation You'll need to verify your credentials as a legitimate media representative:

  • Letter of assignment from your media organization, signed by publisher or editor-in-chief

  • Details about duration and scope of your coverage assignment

  • Copy of your press card

  • Work samples demonstrating your journalism experience

4. ⏰ Await Confirmation

  • Successful applicants receive notification with further event details

  • International applicants are responsible for obtaining their own visas


💡 Pro Tip: Start the process early! Media accreditation for major FIFA events is highly competitive, and having all your documentation ready gives you the best chance of securing coverage access to this historic tournament in Mexico.


🖼️ Guadalajara's Stunning World Cup Poster


Guadalajara unveiled its official World Cup 2026 poster in a grand ceremony at Estadio Akron, creating a visual love letter to the city's rich cultural heritage. Created by Mexican artist Mario Cortés "Cuemanche," the vibrant design combines pink, yellow, green, and orange colors while showcasing iconic landmarks: mariachi musicians, the Cathedral spires, Teatro Degollado, Templo Expiatorio, Cerro del Cuatro and Cerro del Tesoro mountains, traditional Tonalá crafts, the Basilica of Zapopan, charreada figures, and local favorites like torta ahogada and tequila.


As Chivas president Amaury Vergara noted: "It's a great responsibility and opportunity to show the world what Guadalajara is, what Jalisco is – the most Mexican state." Bonus for football fans: the historic Estadio Jalisco will serve as the official training ground for national teams during the tournament!


🚧 Challenges and Transformations

It's not all smooth sailing. The renovation of the iconic Azteca Stadium has faced some controversy, including disputes over naming rights (it will be called "Estadio Ciudad de México" during the World Cup per FIFA regulations) and tensions with longtime box holders whose seats will be commandeered during the tournament.

However, these growing pains are part of Mexico's commitment to delivering a world-class experience that meets FIFA's exacting standards while preserving the country's rich football heritage.


🏨 Best Hotels Near Estadio Guadalajara (Akron)


Planning to catch Mexico's crucial second group-stage match on June 18 in Guadalajara? Since Estadio Guadalajara sits on the western edge of the metro area in Zapopan, surrounded by the beautiful Bosque La Primavera ecological reserve, here are the best accommodation options to maximize your World Cup experience:


🌟 Luxury Options:

  • Hyatt Regency Andares - Modern luxury in the heart of Zapopan's upscale Andares district

  • Villa Premiere Boutique Hotel & Romantic Getaway - Boutique charm with easy access to the stadium

  • Krystal Urban Guadalajara - Contemporary hotel with excellent amenities


🏨 Mid-Range Favorites:

  • Hampton Inn & Suites by Hilton Guadalajara-Expo - Reliable comfort with shuttle services

  • City Express Guadalajara Expo - Modern efficiency near the convention center

  • Hotel Demetria - Boutique style in the trendy Providencia area


💡 Pro Tip: Book accommodations in the Andares, Providencia, or Zapopan Centro areas for the best balance of proximity to the stadium and access to Guadalajara's vibrant restaurant and nightlife scene.


🎉 Beyond the Stadium: Your Complete Guadalajara Experience


Want to make the most of your World Cup adventure? For everything else fun to do during your stay – from local festivals and cultural events to hidden gems and exciting activities – check the TWIG Events calendar for the most up-to-date listings of what's happening in Guadalajara during your visit!


🎯 The Fans Hub: Join the Global Community


What makes The World Cup Guide truly special is its authentic fan community. The creators have personally attended every World Cup since 2006 and have met fans from all over the world with similar stories and streaks – some even going as far back as 1982! It's an amazing community of people from various cultures and countries, uniting over the beautiful game. Obviously, they're obsessed and follow a multitude of leagues in addition to the international game.


🎯 What You'll Find:

  • Expert tips from seasoned World Cup travelers with decades of experience

  • Detailed guides on hospitality packages and ticket options

  • Insider insights on navigating World Cup logistics from fans who follow multiple leagues globally

  • Fan-to-fan advice that you won't find in official sources

  • Community wisdom from an international network of dedicated football followers


🪙 World Cup 2026 Commemorative Coins


Collectors and football fans can commemorate the historic tri-national 2026 World Cup with official coins from both the U.S. and Mexico.


U.S. Mint Commemorative Coins (Available Starting January 1, 2026):

President Biden signed the World Cup 2026 Commemorative Coin Act into law on December 11, 2024, authorizing the U.S. Mint to produce three coin types:


💰 Coin Types and Pricing:

  • $5 Gold Coins: Limited to 100,000 pieces, 90% gold content, retail price includes $35 surcharge

  • $1 Silver Coins: Capped at 500,000 pieces, 90% silver content, retail price includes $10 surcharge

  • Half-Dollar Clad Coins: Maximum 750,000 pieces, retail price includes $5 surcharge


🎯 Key Features:

  • Available in both Proof and Uncirculated finishes

  • Designs will be "emblematic of soccer and the World Cup"

  • One-year sales period beginning January 1, 2026

  • No additional cost to taxpayers - self-funded through sales

  • Proceeds support U.S. youth soccer programs and underserved communities


📍 Where to Buy:

  • U.S. Coins: Directly from the U.S. Mint (catalog.usmint.gov) starting January 1, 2026

  • Important: Only purchase from official government mints to ensure authenticity


Mexican Commemorative Coins  (Available end of 2025):

The Bank of Mexico is creating nine commemorative coins to celebrate Mexico's historic third World Cup hosting, officially published in the Official Gazette on June 6. The collection offers options for every collector and football fan.


🥇 Gold Commemorative Coin:

  • Face value: 25 pesos

  • Specifications: Circular shape, grooved edge, 23mm diameter (same size as 2-peso coins)

  • Weight: 7.776 grams (quarter troy ounce)

  • Purity: 99.9% pure gold (.999 fine gold)


🥈 Three Different Silver Coins:

  • Face value: 10 pesos each

  • Specifications: Circular shape, grooved edge, 40mm diameter (1cm larger than current 20-peso coins)

  • Weight: 31.03 grams (one ounce of pure silver)

  • Purity: 99.9% silver (.999 fineness)


🪙 Three Different Bimetallic Coins:

  • Face value: 20 pesos each

  • Specifications: Dodecagonal shape (twelve sides), discontinuous fluted edge, 30mm diameter

  • Weight: 12.67 grams

  • Center material: Silver alpaca alloy (65% copper, 10% nickel, 25% zinc)

  • Ring material: Bronze-aluminum alloy (92% copper, 6% aluminum, 2% nickel)


🎨 Design Features:

  • Obverse: Mexican national coat of arms on all coins

  • Reverse: Special 2026 World Cup designs (to be determined by September 4)

  • Production: Minting begins 30 days after design approval


📍 Where to Buy Mexican World Cup Coins:

  • Primary source: Banco de México's numismatic products marketing network

  • Availability: Through Casa de la Moneda (Mexico's official mint) and authorized dealers (many are banks)

  • Important: Only purchase from official government mints to ensure authenticity

  • Timeline: Minting begins end of 2025, public availability to follow


💰 Special Bonus for Collectors: The 20-peso bimetallic coins will circulate as regular currency, meaning you might find these commemorative World Cup coins in everyday transactions, creating a unique "treasure hunt" opportunity for collectors across Mexico.


🎯 Why These Matter: These coins commemorate Mexico's unprecedented achievement as the first three-time World Cup host, making them historically significant collectibles likely to appreciate in value.


💡 Collector's Tip: These 2026 commemorative coins are expected to have strong collector appeal due to the historic first tri-national World Cup and Mexico's record as the first three-time host. The 1994 U.S. World Cup commemoratives performed well and remain popular today.



TWIG’s Final Word

🚀 Ready to be part of history? Start planning your Mexican World Cup adventure today and prepare for the most culturally immersive World Cup experience ever created.


⚽ ¡Nos vemos en México 2026! 🎉


🎇The TWIG team wishes you the best life in our beautiful city of Guadalajara. We’re always here to help, if we can!

FAQ´S -

  1. HOW SAFE IS GUADALAJARA? Guadalajara is both safe and unsafe, depending on your lifestyle and choices. Numbeo safety index gives Mexico City a crime rating of 68.2 which is high. Guadalajara's is close at 62.2. If the crime rate comes higher than other similar big cities (Paris, London, New-York, Rome), in Mexico, most violent crimes are restricted to instances between criminal organizations. Reading about cartel activities in Mexico can be scary, however, unless you are extremely naïve or unlucky to find yourself in the wrong place at the wrong time, as a tourist or expat, you have no reason to encounter criminal organizations, just like you don’t meet the mafia when traveling in Italy.

  2. What makes Guadalajara a safer place than most other big cities in the world? People’s kindness and helpful nature. Very low aggressivity and no mass shootings. Most Mexicans are non-aggressive (except behind the wheel), polite and well mannered. GDL has a great expat community ready to help. Check TWIG’s connect page for all the wonderful groups we recommend you join to get help, good advice and make solid friends.

  3. Is Mexico safer than the US? In this video Andrew compares Mexico to the USA and explains why Mexico is safer.

  4. How to Make Your Move to Guadalajara Smooth and Stress-Free? Sign-up to TWIG's Relocation Program and learn in 4 days what it takes other years. From where to eat, where to stay, what to see, and connecting you to all the top professionals you need for your new life, you’ll feel home in an instant.

  5. How can I stay updated on the latest events and attractions in Guadalajara? Subscribe to TWIG's free weekly newsletter to get the best of Guadalajara delivered directly to your inbox.

Want more of everything going on in Guadalajara? Subscribe to TWIG’s free weekly newsletter to get the best of Guadalajara in your inbox. And get the “Best of Guadalajara List” to know the top bilingual professionals in 30+ categories (from private drivers to doctors).



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🎇 Join our community for weekly event insights! Embrace, share, and become a part of Guadalajara's rich tapestry with TWIG!

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