Azteca Stadium reopens renovated ahead of the 2026 World Cup

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MEXICO CITY.— The historic Azteca Stadium, where legends like Pelé and Diego Maradona shone, will reopen its doors this Saturday after a deep remodeling that modernizes its facilities a few months before celebrating six decades of history.

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The emblematic venue, inaugurated in 1966, returns to activity with a renewed image and ready to be one of the main stages of the 2026 World Cup. As part of its reopening, the Mexico national football team will face the Portugal national football team in a friendly match, one of the favorite teams in the FIFA ranking.

Without their biggest stars

The expected duel will not feature two of the great figures of world football. Cristiano Ronaldo was ruled out due to injury, while Lionel Messi will not be present following the elimination of his club, Inter Miami, in the Concacaf Cup. Despite these absences, expectations are high among fans, who will attend en masse to see the new face of the stadium and experience the atmosphere in one of the most iconic temples of world football.

A stadium worthy of the World Cup

Among the main improvements, the installation of a latest-generation hybrid turf stands out, composed of 95% natural grass and 5% synthetic fibers, accompanied by a modern irrigation, ventilation, and drainage system. The stadium will now have a capacity for 87,500 spectators, as well as modern LED screens, improvements in access, reinforced connectivity with more than a thousand internet antennas and an expanded security system with more than 200 cameras. Also, the sound system was completely renovated with more than 250 high-quality speakers, which will allow for a more immersive experience for attendees.

Countdown to 2026

Although adjustments are still pending in outdoor areas and final details inside, the stadium will be ready to host the opening match of the 2026 World Cup on June 11, once again establishing itself as one of the epicenters of world football. The reopening of the Azteca not only marks the return of a stadium, but the renovation of a historical symbol of sport that is preparing to write a new chapter in its legacy.

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