🇲🇽 World Cup 2026 Venue

Estadio Azteca

Mexico City, Mexico City · Mexico

7 WC Matches87,523 capacityOpened 1966

Capacity

87,523

Opened

1966

Altitude

2,240 m

Location

Mexico City, MX

WC Finals

1970 & 1986

WC Highlight

🎉 Opening Match

About Estadio Azteca

Estadio Azteca is one of the most iconic football venues in history and the proud host of the FIFA World Cup 2026 opening match — Mexico vs South Africa on 11 June 2026. This legendary stadium in the Coyoacán district of Mexico City is the only venue in the world to have hosted two World Cup Finals: the 1970 tournament won by Brazil (home of Pelé's greatest performances) and the 1986 Final won by Argentina (featuring Diego Maradona's "Hand of God" and "Goal of the Century" against England in the quarter-final). Built in 1966 and renovated for the 2026 tournament, the Azteca seats over 87,500 fans and sits at 2,240 metres above sea level — a significant altitude factor that teams must account for when playing at this venue. The distinctive cantilevered partial roof and the thunderous atmosphere generated by Mexico's passionate Azteca faithful make this one of the most special stages in world sport. For the opening ceremony and match, expect a colour-saturated, noise-filled event that will capture the imagination of billions of football fans worldwide.

The only stadium to have hosted two FIFA World Cup Finals (1970 and 1986). One of the most historic sporting venues in the world, located at 2,240 m above sea level.

World Cup 2026 Matches at Azteca

Match Schedule

7 total matches

Opening Match

🎉 Mexico vs South Africa — Opening Ceremony & Match, 11 June 2026

1 match

Group Stage

Additional group stage fixtures at this iconic venue

5 matches

Round of 32

Knockout round match

1 match
View full fixture schedule →

🎫 Attending Azteca?

Buy tickets through FIFA's official platform

All World Cup 2026 tickets are sold exclusively through FIFA.com/tickets. No third-party sellers are authorised for original face-value tickets.

Location & Access

CityMexico City, Mexico City
From City CentreLocated in the Coyoacán district of southern Mexico City, approximately 12 km from the city centre
Nearest AirportMexico City International Airport (MEX) — 15 km away

Getting to Azteca

🚇

Metro

Mexico City Metro Line 2 to Tasqueña, then Tren Ligero to Estadio Azteca station. Cheap and reliable — the recommended option for match days.

🚌

Bus (Metrobús)

Mexico City Metrobús lines serve the area. Line 4 stops near the stadium. A cost-effective option for visitors staying in central areas.

🚕

Taxi / Rideshare

Uber and Cabify operate extensively in Mexico City. Book in advance for match days. Avoid unlicensed taxis — use only app-based services.

🚗

Car

Limited parking available around the stadium. The Periferico and Calzada de Tlalpan are the main access roads. Traffic is notoriously heavy — allow 2+ hours before kick-off.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the opening match of World Cup 2026?
The opening match of FIFA World Cup 2026 is Mexico vs South Africa at Estadio Azteca in Mexico City on Thursday 11 June 2026. An opening ceremony will precede kick-off.
How many World Cup Finals has Azteca Stadium hosted?
Estadio Azteca is the only stadium in the world to have hosted two FIFA World Cup Finals: 1970 (Brazil 4–1 Italy) and 1986 (Argentina 3–2 West Germany). It is also famous for Maradona's Hand of God and Goal of the Century in 1986.
What is the altitude of Estadio Azteca?
Estadio Azteca sits at 2,240 metres (7,349 feet) above sea level. This high altitude significantly reduces oxygen availability, affecting player fitness. Teams typically acclimatise before playing at altitude.
How do I get to Estadio Azteca by metro?
Take Mexico City Metro Line 2 to Tasqueña station, then transfer to the Tren Ligero light rail southbound to the Estadio Azteca stop. This is the cheapest and most reliable match-day transport option.
What is the capacity of Estadio Azteca?
Estadio Azteca has a capacity of approximately 87,523, making it one of the largest football venues in the world. FIFA may adjust configurations for World Cup matches.
How to get tickets for Azteca World Cup matches?
All World Cup 2026 tickets are sold through FIFA's official ticketing platform at FIFA.com/tickets. For the opening match, demand will be at its peak — register for ticket ballots as early as possible.
What city is Estadio Azteca in?
Estadio Azteca is in the Coyoacán district of Mexico City, Mexico's capital. It is approximately 12 km from the historic city centre and 15 km from Mexico City International Airport (MEX).
Is Estadio Azteca covered?
Estadio Azteca has a cantilevered partial roof that covers the seating areas but the pitch is open to the sky. The roof provides significant shade for spectators. Mexico City in June typically has warm days with possible afternoon showers.

📺 Watching from Home?

Stream Azteca matches live

Find your official broadcaster and streaming options for every match at Azteca.

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