By Zoila Palma: Mexico became the first nation to host the men’s FIFA World Cup three times as the 2026 tournament officially opens today.
The opening match will feature host nation Mexico against South Africa at Estadio Azteca in Mexico City, marking the start of what is being described as the largest World Cup in FIFA history.
The tournament includes more teams, players and matches than any previous edition with 48 countries participating and more than 100 games scheduled.
Over the next five weeks, billions of viewers around the world are expected to follow the competition.
Experts also anticipate the event will generate billions of dollars for Mexico’s economy through tourism, hospitality and merchandise sales.
Ahead of the opening match, Mexico City completed major infrastructure upgrades, including improvements to the airport, road network and Estadio Azteca.
The stadium’s capacity was expanded to 87,500 seats, all of which are sold out for today’s match. Upgrades to the venue also included enhancements to turf airflow and drainage systems as heavy rain was forecast for the city.
Meanwhile, FIFA President Gianni Infantino addressed concerns over visa denials and high-ticket prices during a press conference on Wednesday.
Infantino said individual countries determine who may enter their borders and expressed confidence that FIFA is working to resolve related issues.
For fans unable to obtain tickets, Mexico City established a fan zone capable of accommodating 50,000 people, where spectators can watch the opening match on a massive LED screen while enjoying scheduled performances throughout the day.
The post International News: 48 countries, 1 World Cup, Mexico to open historic FIFA World Cup 2026 appeared first on Belize News and Opinion on www.breakingbelizenews.com.
By Zoila Palma: Mexico became the first nation to host the men’s FIFA World Cup three times as the 2026 tournament officially opens today. The opening match will feature host nation Mexico against South Africa at Estadio Azteca in Mexico City, marking the start of what is being described as the largest World Cup in
The post International News: 48 countries, 1 World Cup, Mexico to open historic FIFA World Cup 2026 appeared first on Belize News and Opinion on www.breakingbelizenews.com.
