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Mexico City. – Thousands of fans took part in a colorful pilgrimage this Thursday to the Mexico City Stadium, historically known as the Azteca, to witness the opening match of the 2026 FIFA World Cup. However, the soccer celebration coexisted with a large security deployment, mobility restrictions, and the discontent of residents who claim to have been left out of the event’s benefits.
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From early hours, the streets surrounding the stadium transformed into a festive corridor filled with jerseys, flags, regional music, and traditional dances. Fans of different nationalities advanced along the so-called “last mile,” the final stretch toward the World Cup venue, under the watch of hundreds of security agents.
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The operation included the participation of National Guard personnel, local police, traffic agents, and urban mobility staff, who secured the perimeter established around the stadium and kept access to the area under control.
Security and order at the start of the World Cup
Despite previous concerns about possible demonstrations, especially from members of the National Coordinator of Education Workers (CNTE), the day passed without significant incidents and with an orderly flow of spectators towards the stadium.
The strong police presence and access controls helped ensure security during the hours leading up to the start of the opening match, considered one of the most important events on the global sports calendar.
Neighbors report exclusion
While thousands of fans enjoyed the soccer festival, residents of nearby communities expressed their discontent over the restrictions imposed during the event.
Some neighbors pointed out that the authorities prevented them from carrying out usual commercial activities on match days, such as the sale of food, drinks, or parking spaces, sources of income that traditionally complement their economy.
“They restrict us from working while others do business. We feel like the party is right in front of our homes, but out of our reach,” commented some residents who watched the fans pass by from the doors of their homes.
The situation contrasted with the willingness of many visitors, who were looking for last-minute tickets and were willing to pay high sums to attend the historic inaugural match.
Economic impact and expectations
Despite the criticism, the World Cup represents an important economic opportunity for Mexico. Projections estimate the arrival of more than 5.5 million visitors during the tournament, as well as an economic impact of between 1.8 and 3 billion dollars.
Mexico City alone anticipates benefits exceeding 26 billion pesos derived from tourism, consumption, and commercial activity generated by the World Cup.
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At the same time, small businesses and convenience stores reported a significant increase in sales of beverages, food, and fast-moving consumer goods due to the constant flow of fans.
A global party with local contrasts
While the opening match was being followed by millions of viewers around the world, a reflection persisted among many local residents in the vicinity of the stadium: who is part of the celebration and who is watching the spectacle from the outside.
The 2026 World Cup began with the joy typical of the greatest soccer event, but it also exposed the social contrasts that often accompany major international events, where sporting excitement coexists with economic and community challenges.
