Mexico City FIFA World Cup Schedule Dates, Matches & Venue Guide. FIFA World Cup 2026 Mexico City Schedule – Opening Match, Dates & Tickets. Set to open one of the most ambitious football tournaments ever, the 2026 FIFA World Cup will launch on 11 June 2026 in the vibrant capital of Mexico — Mexico City. As a co-host alongside Canada and the United States, Mexico plays a starring role, with Mexico City at the heart of the excitement.
Here’s what fans need to know about Mexico City’s schedule, stadiums, and the unique experience awaiting travellers and football lovers.
📅 Key Dates & Venue Highlights
- The tournament kicks off on Thursday 11 June 2026 in Mexico City.
- The group stage runs from 11-27 June.
- The knockout rounds begin with the Round-of-32 from 28 June – 3 July, round-of-16 from 4–7 July, quarter-finals 9–11 July, semifinals 14–15 July, third place match 18 July and the final on 19 July 2026.
Mexico City’s Role & Matches
Mexico City is among the principal host cities for the tournament. The iconic Estadio Azteca (soon after renovation) will host the opening match and other key fixtures.
This gives Mexico City fans a prime opportunity to experience world-class football in a historic setting.
While exact match pairings by date and opponent are still to be finalised (depends on the draw and group assignments), the city is expected to host:
- At least one fixture on 11 June (the opener) in Mexico City.
- Other group-stage matches in Mexico City on 24 June as part of Matchday 3 for host venues.
- Possibly a Round-of-32 match or other knockout fixture in Mexico City, as part of Mexico’s host-venue The Mexico City leg of the 2026 FIFA World Cup will open the world’s biggest football event at the iconic Estadio Azteca. The tournament runs from June 11 to July 19, 2026, jointly hosted by the USA, Canada, and Mexico. Mexico will stage 13 matches across three cities: Mexico City, Guadalajara, and Monterrey, with the capital hosting several key fixtures including the opening match and at least one knockout game.
The Mexico City leg of the 2026 FIFA World Cup will open the world’s biggest football event at the iconic Estadio Azteca. The tournament runs from June 11 to July 19, 2026, jointly hosted by the USA, Canada, and Mexico. Mexico will stage 13 matches across three cities: Mexico City, Guadalajara, and Monterrey, with the capital hosting several key fixtures including the opening match and at least one knockout game.
Mexico City World Cup 2026 Schedule
| Date | Match | Round | Venue | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| June 11, 2026 | Match 1 | Group Stage | Estadio Azteca | Opening match — Mexico plays first game |
| June 17, 2026 | Match 24 | Group Stage | Estadio Azteca | Group stage fixture |
| June 24, 2026 | Match 53 | Group Stage | Estadio Azteca | Mexico likely to play again |
| June 30, 2026 | Match 79 | Round of 32 | Estadio Azteca | Knockout stage match |
| July 5, 2026 | Match 92 | Round of 16 | Estadio Azteca | Possible Mexico City knockout tie |
What This Means for Fans & Visitors
For those planning travel from India (or elsewhere) to Mexico City during the World Cup:
- Early arrival is key: With the opening match on 11 June, expect high demand for flights, hotels and hospitality. Booking early is advisable.
- Accommodation & city crowds: Mexico City is already a major global city; during the World Cup it will swell with fans, fan-zones, public screenings and international media.
- Match tickets & logistics: Keep an eye on official channels for ticketing info. Mexico City’s stadium(s) are undergoing renovation and upgrades to meet FIFA standards.
- Cultural immersion: Beyond football, Mexico City offers rich heritage, cuisine, music and night life. Combine match days with exploring the city’s historic centre, museums, markets and more.
Why Mexico City Is a Perfect Host Choice
- The Estadio Azteca is a legendary venue that previously hosted World Cup finals (1970, 1986) and now will host the opener in 2026.
- Mexico City offers both football-centric infrastructure and a unique cultural experience — making it an ideal balance of sport and travel.
- With travel from India, Mexico City gives an exciting opportunity to witness the global game, in a setting less trodden by typical Euro/US-based fans, for a distinctive experience.
Final Thoughts
The 2026 FIFA World Cup in Mexico City promises not just football matches, but a full-on tournament atmosphere cast in one of the world’s great megacities. From the opening whistle on 11 June, fans in Mexico City will be part of something historic, global and unforgettable.
Whether you’re planning to attend, watch from a fan-zone, or simply follow from afar, mark your calendars, monitor ticket announcements, and prepare for one of the biggest sports events in the world to play out across Mexico, Canada and the USA.
Eager to include full match-dates, team assignments or local fan-zone details for Mexico City? I can help pull the most up-to-date info as it becomes available!
