2026 World Cup will be kicked off by Mexico

December 5, 2025, in Washington, Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum met U.S. President Donald Trump and Mark Carney, the Prime Minister of Canadain Washington. The meeting occurred during the group-stage draw ceremony, where Mexico expressed optimism about its group opponents: South Africa, South Korea, and a to-be-determined team. Sheinbaum stated the in-person encounter aims to strengthen North American ties and ensure successful event hosting. The 2026 FIFA World Cup will kick off on June 11, 2026, at Estadio Azteca in Mexico City, with the opening match featuring Mexico vs. South Africa (Group A).

Additionally, Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum announced that the country’s federal infrastructure projects for the 2026 World Cup will be completed on time. The tournament starts in June 2026, with Mexico hosting 13 matches in Mexico City, Guadalajara, and Monterrey. Projects include transportation and urban improvements around the stadiums. The three stadiums (Azteca, Akron, BBVA) are already in place but undergoing renovations to meet FIFA standards. The 2026 FIFA World Cup will kick off on June 11, 2026, at Estadio Azteca in Mexico City, with the opening match featuring Mexico vs. South Africa (Group A).

In the meantime, Mexico will host the pinnacle of global football for the third time following 1970 and 1986, and become the first country which hosts the FIFA world cup three times—let’s await this world-renowned football carnival with thrilling hearts and boundless passion!