Estadio Azteca World Cup 2026 Schedule & Dates – Mexico City
Estadio Azteca, located in Mexico City, Mexico, is an iconic football stadium opened in 1966 and world-renowned for hosting the 1970 and 1986 FIFA World Cup finals, where legends Pelé and Diego Maradona lifted the trophy.
To comply with FIFA’s neutral naming policy, the venue will be officially referred to as “Mexico City Stadium” during the 2026 World Cup.
The stadium will have an approximate capacity of 83,000 seats for tournament matches, making it one of the largest venues at the World Cup, following slight reductions to accommodate media areas and enhanced fan facilities.
As Mexico’s flagship host venue, Estadio Azteca holds immense significance, hosting the tournament opener on June 11, 2026—the first match of the expanded 48-team competition co-hosted by Canada, Mexico, and the United States.
This marks the third time Estadio Azteca has staged World Cup matches, further cementing Mexico City’s rich football heritage.
Fans from around the world will gather to experience elite football at a unique altitude of over 7,200 feet (2,200 meters) above sea level, adding another layer of drama to the tournament.
This guide covers the full match schedule, key dates, stadium details, and an essential fan guide to help supporters plan their matchday experience in Mexico City.
World Cup 2026 Teams Playing at Estadio Azteca
Confirmed national teams for group-stage matches at Estadio Azteca include Mexico, Jamaica, Cabo Verde (Cape Verde), Uruguay, Germany, Côte d’Ivoire (Ivory Coast), Ecuador, and Curaçao.
These represent a mix from CONCACAF (Mexico, Jamaica), CAF (Cabo Verde, Côte d’Ivoire), CONMEBOL (Uruguay, Ecuador, Curaçao), and UEFA (Germany), blending host nation energy with international stars.
No specific playoff qualifiers are assigned to group-stage games here, but knockout rounds will feature advancing teams from various groups.
Teams were allocated via the FIFA draw in December 2025, grouping the 48 nations into 12 groups of four.
Venues like Mexico City were chosen based on southern regional pods to reduce travel, with emphasis on host nations playing in their home cities for fan engagement and logistical balance.
How Many World Cup Matches Will Be Played at Estadio Azteca?
A total of five matches will be played at Estadio Azteca, focusing on the tournament’s early stages.
The breakdown includes three group-stage matches and two knockout games: one Round of 32 and one Round of 16.
This setup builds from opening ceremony excitement to elimination intensity. Dates range from June 11 to July 5, 2026, within the overall tournament from June 11 to July 19.
World Cup 2026 Match Schedule in Mexico City
The iconic Estadio Azteca (Mexico City Stadium) in Mexico City will host five matches for the FIFA World Cup 2026, including the tournament’s opening match.
The opening game will feature co-hosts Mexico against South Africa on Thursday, June 11, 2026, at 3 p.m. ET (12 p.m. local time).
This will make the Estadio Azteca the first stadium in history to host matches in three separate World Cups, following the 1970 and 1986 tournaments.
The other matches scheduled for the venue include a group stage match between Uzbekistan and Colombia on Wednesday, June 17, 2026, and Mexico’s final group game against a UEFA playoff winner on Wednesday, June 24, 2026.
Additionally, the stadium will host one Round of 32 match on Tuesday, June 30, 2026, and one Round of 16 match on Sunday, July 5, 2026.
Group-stage matches
- Thursday, June 11, 2026: Mexico vs. Jamaica (Group A) – 7:30 PM CDT / 8:30 PM EDT (Tournament Opener)
- Wednesday, June 17, 2026: Cabo Verde vs. Uruguay (Group H) – 7:00 PM CDT / 8:00 PM EDT
- Wednesday, June 24, 2026: Germany vs. Côte d’Ivoire (Group E) – 7:00 PM CDT / 8:00 PM EDT
Knockout-stage matches:
- Saturday, June 27, 2026: Round of 32 (Group A winners vs. third place from Groups D/E/F/I/J) – 7:00 PM CDT / 8:00 PM EDT
- Sunday, July 5, 2026: Round of 16 (Winners of Match 83 vs. Winners of Match 84) – 7:00 PM CDT / 8:00 PM EDT
Where Is Estadio Azteca Located in Mexico City?
The full address is Calz. de Tlalpan 3465, Sta. Úrsula Coapa, Coyoacán, 04650 Ciudad de México, CDMX, Mexico.
It is situated in the southern part of Mexico City, about 10 miles from downtown (Centro Histórico) and near landmarks like the Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México (UNAM) campus and Xochimilco’s floating gardens.
Accessibility includes Metro Line 2 to Tasqueña station (then a short bus or walk), major highways like Calzada de Tlalpan, and rideshares. Mexico City International Airport (AICM) is 12 miles northeast, with traffic considerations on matchdays.
Estadio Azteca World Cup 2026 Fan Guide
Attending a World Cup match at Estadio Azteca is a bucket-list experience for any football fan. Known for its passionate supporters, high altitude atmosphere, and legendary history, the stadium delivers unmatched matchday energy.
From transportation tips and security guidelines to seating advice and nearby accommodations, this fan guide covers everything supporters need to plan a smooth and unforgettable World Cup experience in Mexico City.
Best Seating Areas for Soccer Matches
Sideline seats in the lower levels (Platea Baja) offer prime views of the pitch. Upper tiers (Platea Alta) provide panoramic sights at lower costs, while club boxes add luxury.
Atmosphere tips: South end sections buzz with passionate supporters; the high altitude (7,200 ft) amplifies noise—earplugs recommended. Avoid very high rows for better visibility.
Stadium Entry Times & Arrival Tips
Gates typically open 2-3 hours before kickoff. Due to expected massive crowds and security screening, plan to arrive at least 90 minutes to 2 hours before the match starts. The official FIFA fan shuttle services and public transport will be extremely busy.
Entry Rules, Security & Weather Tips
All tickets are expected to be digital/mobile-only. Have a valid photo ID ready for verification. Security includes pat-downs and metal detectors; clear bags only (≤12x6x12 inches).
June and July are the rainy season. Afternoon showers are frequent. Days are mild (highs around 24°C/75°F), but nights can be cool. Dress in layers, bring a waterproof jacket, and wear sunscreen for day games.
The high altitude can cause shortness of breath or mild sickness. Stay hydrated, avoid overexertion, and allow yourself time to acclimatize
Prohibited Items at Estadio Azteca
Bans include large bags, outside food/drinks, umbrellas, coolers, weapons, noise-makers, and professional cameras. While the final World Cup-specific list will be published by FIFA closer to the event, typically prohibited items include:
- Bags that do not comply with the clear bag policy (usually bags larger than a small clutch).
- Outside food and beverages, alcohol, glass bottles, and coolers.
- Professional cameras with detachable lenses, tripods, selfie sticks.
- Weapons, fireworks, laser pointers, noisemakers like air horns, and large banners or flags on poles.
Getting to Estadio Azteca by Public Transport
Public transport is strongly recommended to avoid matchday traffic. The most efficient route is to take Metro Line 2 (the blue line) to the final southbound station, Tasqueña.
From there, transfer to the Xochimilco Light Rail (Tren Ligero) and travel two stops to Estadio Azteca station, which is steps from the stadium.
Designated drop-off zones will be established around the stadium perimeter. Expect severe traffic delays and surge pricing.
Parking, Ride-Share & Drop-Off Areas
On-site parking is very limited. If you must drive, pre-booking a parking spot in advance is essential. Allow at least 2 hours of travel time from central areas due to expected heavy traffic.
Use official designated pick-up and drop-off zones for rideshare services like Uber or Didi.
Food, Entertainment & Fan Zones in Mexico City
Expect a variety of concession stands. The stadium has previously offered unique experiences like pitch-side dinners.
Explore the incredible street food scene outside the stadium before entry.
The official FIFA Fan Festival for Mexico City will be set up in the Zócalo, the city’s massive main square in the historic center, and is expected to feature the largest screen among all host cities
Hotels Near Estadio Azteca
There are few hotels within walking distance of the stadium, and they are generally business-oriented. For a better experience, consider staying in popular, well-connected neighborhoods and using public transport on match days.
Fiesta Inn Periférico Sur (1 mile). Downtown options: Four Seasons Mexico City (10 miles).