Estadio Akron World Cup 2026 Schedule & Dates – Guadalajara

Estadio Akron, located in Zapopan, a suburb of Guadalajara, Jalisco, Mexico, is a modern soccer-specific stadium that opened in 2010.

Known for its striking asymmetrical design inspired by a volcano, the stadium offers a seating capacity of 49,813, creating an intense atmosphere for major football events.

In line with FIFA’s neutral branding policy, the venue will be temporarily renamed “Estadio Guadalajara” during the 2026 World Cup.

Ahead of the tournament, the stadium has undergone renovations worth over $12.4 million USD, including upgraded LED lighting, an enhanced sound system, larger video screens, and infrastructure improvements to meet FIFA standards.

As one of Mexico’s official host venues, Estadio Guadalajara will play an important role in the expanded 48-team World Cup, co-hosted by Canada, Mexico, and the United States.

The stadium is set to host four group-stage matches, including a key fixture featuring the Mexican national team.

This guide covers the full match schedule, important dates, stadium details, and a complete fan guide to help supporters plan their matchday experience in Guadalajara.

World Cup 2026 Teams Playing at Estadio Akron

Confirmed national teams for group-stage matches at Estadio Guadalajara include Mexico, Korea Republic, Uruguay, Spain, and Colombia.

These represent CONCACAF (Mexico), AFC (Korea Republic), CONMEBOL (Uruguay, Colombia), and UEFA (Spain), offering a mix of North American passion, Asian discipline, South American flair, and European technical prowess.

Potential playoff qualifiers include the UEFA Playoff D Winner (Czechia, Denmark, North Macedonia, or Republic of Ireland) facing Korea Republic in Group A, and the OFC/CONCACAF/CAF Playoff Winner (Congo DR, Jamaica, or New Caledonia) facing Colombia in Group K.

FIFA allocated teams through the official draw held in December 2025, dividing the 48 nations into 12 groups of four based on seeding pots and geographic clustering.

Southern venues like Guadalajara were assigned matches to minimize travel for teams in regional pods, ensuring efficient logistics while prioritizing host nation games in key cities like Mexico’s second match here

How Many World Cup Matches Will Be Played at Estadio Akron?

A total of four matches will be played at Estadio Guadalajara, all in the group stage, as part of the tournament’s 104-game format.

The breakdown focuses on early tournament action, with no knockout rounds assigned. This allows for high-energy group rivalries, including Mexico’s pivotal home game.

Official dates span from June 11 to June 26, 2026, aligning with the overall schedule from June 11 to July 19.

World Cup 2026 Match Schedule in Guadalajara

Guadalajara Stadium, known locally as the Estadio Akron in Zapopan, Mexico, is set to host four group stage matches for the FIFA World Cup 2026. The stadium is one of three venues in Mexico chosen for the tournament and will exclusively feature group-stage action.

The match schedule includes four exciting matchups: On Thursday, June 11, 2026, South Korea will face a UEFA Playoff Winner.

The Mexican national team will play their second group game in this stadium on Thursday, June 18, 2026, against South Korea.

The action continues with Colombia taking on an Intercontinental Playoff Winner on Tuesday, June 23, 2026, followed by a final group match between Uruguay and Spain on Friday, June 26, 2026.

Group-stage fixtures

Thursday, June 11, 2026: Korea Republic vs. UEFA Playoff D Winner (Czechia/Denmark/North Macedonia/Republic of Ireland) – Group A – 7:00 PM CDT / 8:00 PM EDT
Thursday, June 18, 2026: Mexico vs. Korea Republic – Group A – 7:00 PM CDT / 8:00 PM EDT
Tuesday, June 23, 2026: Colombia vs. OFC/CONCACAF/CAF Playoff Winner (Congo DR/Jamaica/New Caledonia) – Group K – 7:00 PM CDT / 8:00 PM EDT
Friday, June 26, 2026: Uruguay vs. Spain – Group H – 7:00 PM CDT / 8:00 PM EDT

• Knockout matches (Round of 32, Round of 16, etc.)
No knockout matches are scheduled at Estadio Guadalajara.

Where Is Estadio Akron Located in Guadalajara?

The full address is Av. Circuito JVC 280, El Bajío, 45019 Zapopan, Jal., Mexico. It is located in Zapopan, about 15-20 km (9-12 miles) northwest of downtown Guadalajara, in a suburban area near shopping centers and residential zones.

Proximity to Guadalajara International Airport (GDL) is approximately 30 km (18 miles) southeast, a 30-45 minute drive depending on traffic.

Estadio Akron World Cup 2026 Fan Guide

Complete matchday travel and stadium info for an unforgettable experience in Guadalajara, blending modern facilities with local hospitality. Prepare for crowds and heat by planning ahead.

Best Seating Areas for Soccer Matches

Sideline seating in sections like 100-200 levels offers optimal views of the full pitch, perfect for following plays. End zones provide closer goal action but may limit midfield visibility.

Lower bowl seats deliver immersive energy, while upper tiers are more affordable with broader perspectives. Atmosphere tips: South end sections host passionate supporters with chants; the stadium’s acoustics amplify the crowd—earplugs advised for intense games.

Stadium Entry Times & Arrival Tips

Gates generally open 2-3 hours before kickoff. For the World Cup, it is strongly recommended to arrive at least 90 minutes to 2 hours early to account for enhanced security screenings and large crowds.

Entry Rules, Security & Weather Tips

Entry requires digital tickets via the FIFA app and government-issued ID for adults. Security procedures involve thorough screenings.

Estadio Akron will be a fully cashless venue for the World Cup. Only credit, debit, and gift cards will be accepted at concessions

June is the start of the rainy season in Guadalajara. Expect warm days (average high of 84°F/29°C) with a high chance of afternoon showers or thunderstorms.

Pack a light rain jacket or poncho, wear breathable clothing, and stay hydrated . The city’s altitude is approximately 1,700 meters (5,577 feet), so take it easy if you’re not acclimated.

Prohibited Items at Estadio Akron

The stadium enforces a no-bags policy: all bags, backpacks, purses, and camera bags are banned.

Other prohibited items include outside food/beverages (except medical needs), vapes, umbrellas, weapons, noise-makers, and professional cameras.

Getting to Estadio Akron by Public Transport

The most efficient option is the Mi Macro Periférico Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) line, which has an “Estadio Chivas” station near the venue.

Guadalajara’s light rail system (Tren Ligero) is also a convenient option for moving around the city, and a new line connecting the airport, stadium, and historic center is planned for completion before 2026.

Use apps like Uber, which is widely available. Note that there is no designated rideshare pickup/drop-off zone at the stadium; you may need to walk to a nearby main road like the Periférico to meet your driver.

Parking, Ride-Share & Drop-Off Areas

On-site parking capacity accommodates thousands, with free spots available but limited—arrive 2 hours early. Pre-booking is not typically required, but check for World Cup specifics.

Pickup zones for rideshares and taxis are designated near main entrances; expect post-match waits up to 30 minutes due to traffic.

Food, Entertainment & Fan Zones in Guadalajara

A variety of concessions and bars will be available, serving alcoholic beverages. For a classic local pre-match experience, try “lonches” (Mexican sandwiches) or tacos from vendors outside the stadium.

The official FIFA Fan Fest for Guadalajara will be located in the Historic Centre near the Degollado Theatre, offering a massive screen, food, and entertainment.

Guadalajara is the birthplace of mariachi and tequila. Explore the historic centre, the markets, and vibrant neighbourhoods like Colonia Americana and Tlaquepaque for an authentic experience.