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Estadio Azteca to host 2026 World Cup opening ceremony

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jun 10, 2026, 1:15 PM

Last updated Jun 10, 2026

Estadio Azteca to host 2026 World Cup opening ceremony

Summary

Estadio Azteca will host the opening ceremony and first match of the 2026 FIFA World Cup on June 11 in Mexico City. Officially named Mexico City Stadium, it is set to make history as the first venue to stage three World Cup opening matches. Previously, the stadium hosted the opening matches in 1970 and 1986, as well as the finals in both tournaments. Following a renovation, the stadium now has a capacity of 80,000. The opening match will feature Mexico vs. South Africa, linking the tournament's expansion to a historic venue.

Source Links

Yahoo Sports

By the Numbers

•Estadio Azteca hosts the opening match of the 2026 World Cup.
•Mexico faces South Africa in the tournament's first game.
•The stadium has hosted three World Cup opening matches.
•Estadio Azteca has a seating capacity of 80,000 after renovations.
•The 2026 World Cup features an expanded format with 48 teams.

Latest Updates

1:15 PMYahoo Sports — Estadio Azteca will break World Cup record during opening ceremony

What they're saying

"
Estadio Azteca will once again take centre stage at the World Cup, hosting the opening ceremony and first match of the 2026 tournament in Mexico City. Officially listed by FIFA as Mexico City Stadium, the iconic venue will play a historic role in the expanded competition.
— Yahoo Sports

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