Sheinbaum makes World Cup promise to deliver projects on time
One of three hosts for next year’s tournament, Mexico is undertaking major construction projects, including the renovation of Mexico City International Airport and a train line connecting the capital with Felipe Angeles International Airport.
“This is not only a time to see the best football but also a time to share with the world who we are, what Mexico is – not only a country of immense cultural richness but also a country experiencing a historic moment,” said Sheinbaum, Mexico’s first female President.
Sheinbaum indicated that the federal government is spending $489 million to upgrade Mexico City airport.
Mexico will stage the opening match of the 2026 World Cup at the legendary Azteca Stadium, one of thirteen matches the country will host. The stadium’s renovation is funded privately. The Mexicans are co-hosting the first 48-team World Cup with the United States and Canada.
The federal government has also committed to spending in both Guadalajara and Monterrey, Mexico’s two other host cities during the tournament.
“It will be a very special time with a significant economic impact, but we will be ready in a few months,” said Sheinbaum.
Sheinbaum said she will give away her ticket for the opening match, but even so, the vast majority of Mexicans have been priced out of the tournament, with FIFA receiving heavy criticism for setting very steep ticket prices. The world governing body is monetising the tournament like never before, with The Athletic reporting that FIFA is also selling parking spots near World Cup venues in the US.
Sheinbaum refused to be drawn into the ticketing controversy. She said: “What we’re doing is working with FIFA so that there can be a lot of [public] spaces in the three [host] cities and in other cities so that people can watch the matches [on large screens].”
Mexico will become the first country to host the tournament three times, having staged the finals in 1970 and 1986.
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