Craving for the day when the Legendary Football Tournament 2026 will begin? We know all football fans are eagerly waiting to roar at Estadio Azteca, the iconic stadium. Where we will see Hirving Lozano’s pace and creativity, Dons Alvarez’s strong defence, Santiago Gimenez’s goals, and Cesar Montes defending.
As everyone is busy registering for game tickets, flights, and preparing for the grand day. Before the curtains are raised for the FIFA 2026 World Cup, go through this blog. We have curated a guide for fans who are traveling to Mexico City to watch the “Biggest Football Tournament” in 2026.
Gain insights into the FIFA 2026 Mexico schedule, the opening match day, teams, stadium, transportation, weather, flight details, accommodations, and cultural experiences. Enjoy your travels, make it effortless, and score memories that last a lifetime.
Estadio Azteca (Stadium)
Known for hosting two FIFA World Cup finals in 1970 and 1986. Estadio Azteca had witnessed some legendary moments, Pele’s victory in the 1970 finals and Maradona’s “Hand of God” in 1986. This time, Estadio Azteca - the Cathedral of Football is hosting the Opening Match of the FIFA World Cup 2026
Matches that will be played at Estadio Azteca are: Mexico VS South Africa on June 11, 2026, Uzbekistan vs. Colombia, Mexico vs. TBD on June 24, and two additional group-stage matches that are yet to be decided.
Mexico City FIFA 2026 Stadium Details
Location: Calzada de Plalpan 3465, Colonia Santa Úrsula Coapa, Coyoacán, Ciudad de México, México.
Capacity: 87,000 seats
Home Teams: Club America, Mexico national team.
Total Matches: Five
Nearest Airport: Mexico City International Airport (MEX), about 20km away from the stadium.
How to Reach: Use Metro+Light Rail, car, taxi, rideshare, or public buses after getting off at the MEX airport.
List of Matches Played in Estadio Azteca
Estadio Azteca in Mexico City will host matches between June 11 and 24, held between the group-stage fixtures, delivering some of the most anticipated clashes of the FIFA World Cup 2026. From Mexico’s El Tri opening the game, Uzbekistan’s historic debut against Colombia, fans will witness something more than football: a clash of cultures, style, and dreams on the world's biggest stage.
- Thursday, 11 June 2026 (1:00 PM) - Group A (Opening Match) between Mexico vs. South Africa
- Wednesday, 17 June 2026 (8:00 PM) - Group K between Uzbekistan vs. Colombia
- Wednesday, 24 June 2026 (7:00 PM) - UEFA Playoff Winner D vs. Mexico
- Tuesday, 30 June 2026 (7:00 PM) - Winner Group A vs. 3rd Place C/E/F/H/I (Round of 32, match 79)
- Sunday, 5 July 2026 (6:00 PM) - Winner Match 79 vs. Winner Match 80 (Round of 16, match 92)
FIFA 2026 Mexico City - Travel Details
Understanding the transportation availability for the FIFA World Cup 2026 matches held in Mexico City is a primary concern. The nearest airport to the stadium, the distance between, and how one can travel within the city effortlessly are all things you should know, so that everything goes smoothly as planned.
The nearest airport to the Estadio Azteca is the Mexico City International Airport (MEX), also known as Benito Juárez International Airport. Fans disembarking at Mexico City International Airport (MEX) will have direct access to the city and the FIFA World Cup 2026 stadium. MEX will be the main hub for travelers from Uzbekistan, Colombia, and South Africa coming into Mexico City for the grand match. There are multiple options for intercity travel, including Metro and Light Rail, which are both affordable and efficient, making them ideal for fans seeking budget-friendly travel options.
Mexico National Team
The national team of Mexico, El Tri, ranked 13th in the FIFA World Ranking and first in CONCACAF, is co-hosting the 2026 World Cup. El Tri will play the opening match of the FIFA World Cup 2026 against South Africa on June 11, 2026, at Estadio Azteca. The team will play another game at the same stadium on 24 June, against the UEFA Playoff D winner. Recognized as a consistent World Cup performer since 1994, El Tri has a passionate fan base ready to transform the stadium into a sea of green and echoes of “Si se puede!” El Tri's attacking flair with quick wingers, creative midfielders, and clinical strikers is what keeps them at the top. Get ready for a passionate, resilient, and fiery match.
Heroes of the Pitch
Team Name: El Tri
Goalkeepers: Luis Angel Malagon, Raul Rangel, Carlos Acevedo
Defenders: César Montes, Johan Vásquez, Jesús Gallardo, Israel Reyes, Jorge Sánchez, Mateo Chávez
Midfielders: Edson Alvarez, Marcel Ruiz, Erik Lira, Carlos Rodriguez, Gilberto Mora, Orbelin Pineda
Forwards: Raúl Jiménez, Santiago Giménez, Firmino Lozano, Alexis Vega, Roberto Alvarado, Diego Lainez
Match Details
Group Stage (Match 1): Mexico vs. South Africa (opening match)
Match Date: Thursday, 11 June 2026
Group Stage (Match 53): UEFA Playoff Winner D vs. Mexico
Match Date: Thursday, 11 June 2026
Venue: Estadio Azteca, New Mexico
Travel Highlights
Nearest Airport of Estadio Azteca: Mexico City International Airport (MEX)
Distance between MEX & Estadio Azteca: 12.42 miles
Metro + Light Rail: Line 2 (Blue) - Tasquena - Tren Ligero to Estadio Azteca (1 hour)
Taxi/Ride-Sharing: Uber, Didi, or Local Taxis (30-40 minutes)
Bus Service: Numerous buses connect central Mexico City to the Stadium (45-60 minutes)
Travel Guide for Domestic Travelers of Mexico
Football enthusiasts traveling from nearby cities like Monterrey, Guadalajara, and Cancun can easily fly into Mexico City for the grand opening match. Travelers from nearby states of Mexico City, like Puebla, Morelos, Queretaro, and Hidalgo, also have numerous flight options to visit for the grand match.
Flights from Monterrey to Mexico City are widely available and will operate between Monterrey International Airport (MTY) and Mexico City International Airport (MEX). The distance between the airports is 570 miles, taking around 1.5 hours. Major domestic airlines operating in these airports include VivaAerobus, Volaris, Aeromexico, Aerus, TAR Aerolineas, Magnicharters, and Mexicana de Aviación.
Guadalajara to Mexico City flights are served by multiple airlines, operating between Guadalajara International Airport (GDL) and Mexico International Airport (MEX). The flight duration is around 1.5 hours with a distance of 285 miles. Major airlines operating in GDL and MEX are Volaris, VivaAerobus, Aeromexico, TAR Aerolineas Magnicharters, Alaska Airlines, American Airlines, Copa Airlines, Delta Airlines, and United Airlines.
Passengers from Cancun to Mexico City have numerous daily non-stop flights, which connect Cancun International Airport (CUN) and Mexico City International Airport (MEX). The flight duration is approximately 2 hours covering a distance of 800. Airlines operating on this route include Aeromexico, Viva Aerobus, Volaris, Aerus, Magnicharters, and Mexicana de Aviacion.
South Africa National Team
Bafana Bafana, South Africa’s national team, will be playing the opening match against Mexico’s El Tri on 11 June 2026. Bafana Bafana will be bringing its trademark energy and tactical discipline to Mexico City. The team will be arriving at the grand foot tournament with a strategy built on defensive discipline and lightning-fast counterattacks. Get ready for a resilient, unpredictable match.
Team Lineup
- Team Name: Bafana Bafana
- Goalkeepers: Ronwen Williams, Sipho Chaine, and Ricardo Goss
- Defenders: Tylon Smith, Lhulumani Ndamane, Mbekezeli Mbokazi, Samukelo Kabini, Nkosinathi Sibisi, and Khuliso Mudau
- Midfielders: Thema Zwane, Sphelele Mkhulise, Teboho, and Goodman Mosele
- Forwards: Percy Tau, Evidence Makgopa, and Lyle Foster
Match Details
- Group Stage (Match 1): South Africa vs. Mexico (opening match)
- Match Date: Thursday, 11 June 2026
- Venue: Estadio Azteca, New Mexico
Travel Details - Flights from South Africa to Mexico City
Travelers looking for flights from South Africa to attend the upcoming tournament have three main airports to catch flights to Mexico City. There are multiple connecting flights from these airports to MEX, offering a seamless travel experience.
OR Tambo International Airport (JNB) in Johannesburg provides multiple flights to Mexico City International Airport (MEX). The flights from Johannesburg to Mexico City will take around 22-26 hours, covering approximately 9009.8 miles. Airlines operating in these airports are Delta, United, American Airlines, Air France, KLM, Iberia, and Lufthansa.
The next well-connected airport in South Africa is Cape Town International Airport (CPT), offering several daily flights to MEX for the FIFA 2026 match. Flights from Cape Town to Mexico City are served by numerous major airlines, including KLM, Lufthansa, British Airways, Air France, and United Airlines. The flight duration is around 24-28 hours, with a distance of 9258.4 miles.
Another airport in South Africa that travelers can book flight tickets to the FIFA World Cup 2026 match is King Shaka International Airport (DUR). DUR airport offers a limited flight from Durban to Mexico City, with routes typically connecting via Johannesburg, then onward through Europe or the U.S. The flight distance is approximately 9444 miles, which will take around 26-30 hours; major airlines operating in DUR include Emirates, Air France, KLM, Lufthansa, British Airlines, United, Delta, and American Airlines.
Inter City Travel
- Distance between MEX & Estadio Azteca: 12.42 miles
- Metro + Light Rail: Line 2 (Blue) - Tasquena - Tren Ligero to Estadio Azteca (1 hour)
- Taxi/Ride-Sharing: Uber, Didi, or Local Taxis (30-40 minutes)
- Bus Service: Numerous buses connect central Mexico City to the Stadium (45-60 minutes)
Uzbekistan National Team
White Wolves, Uzbekistan’s national football team, will have their first-ever FIFA World Cup appearance in 2026. The team is the First Central Asian national to qualify for the World Cup. The first match is scheduled for June 18, 2026, against Colombia at Estadio Azteca in Mexico City. Get ready to watch how The White Wolves control the match with their double-pivot strategy, defensive discipline, and rock-solid foundation.
Team Overview
- Team Name: White Wolves
- Goalkeepers: Utkir Yusupov, Abduvohid Nematov, Vladimir Nazarov
- Defender: Abdukodir Khusanov, Husniddin Aliqulov, Rustam Ashurmatov, Farrukh Sayfiev, Sherzod Nasrullaev
- Midfielder: Otabek Shukurov, Abbosbek Fayzullaev, Oston Urunov, Odiljon Hamrobekov
- Forward: Eldor Shomurodov, Igor Sergeev, Khusayin Norchaev
Match Highlights
- Group Stage (Match 24): Uzbekistan vs. Colombia
- Match Date: Wednesday, 17 June 2026
- Venue: Estadio Azteca, New Mexico
Travel Details - Flights from Uzbekistan to Mexico City
For flights from Uzbekistan to Mexico City, travelers can book flights from Tashkent International Airport (TAS), the main hub of Uzbekistan. The flight duration between TAS and MEX is 22-28 hours, covering over 8699 miles. Major airlines operating on this route include Uzbekistan Airways, Emirates, Turkish Airlines, Lufthansa, Air France, and KLM. Common layovers on this route are in Istanbul, Paris, Dubai, Doha, and U.S. hubs. There are two other airports, Samarkand (SKD) and Bukhara Airport (BHK), but they have only limited service, and flights fly via Tashkent or Istanbul/Dubai.
- Departure Airports: Tashkent International Airport (TAS), Samarkand (SKD), or Bukhara Airport (BHK)
- Arrival Airport: Mexico City International Airport (MEX)
- Tashkent to Mexico City: 8,077 miles
- Flight Duration: 15-16 hours (with connections)
- Common Layovers: Europe (Istanbul, Frankfurt, Paris), the Middle East (Dubai, Doha), and U.S. hubs
- Major Airlines: Emirates, Turkish Airlines, Qatar Airways, Aeromexico, American Airlines, Air France, and Lufthansa.
Inter City Travel
- Distance between MEX & Estadio Azteca: 12.42 miles
- Metro + Light Rail: Line 2 (Blue) - Tasquena - Tren Ligero to Estadio Azteca (1 hour)
- Taxi/Ride-Sharing: Uber, Didi, or Local Taxis (30-40 minutes)
- Bus Service: Numerous buses connect central Mexico City to the Stadium (45-60 minutes)
Colombia National Team
Los Cafeteros (The Coffee Growers), Colombia’s national team, has entered the 2026 World Cup as a top 15 powerhouse with a legacy of flair and passion. The team is in Group K and will be playing on 17 June against Mexico El Tri. Expect an electrifying match! Colombia will be dazzling with attacking flair, turning every possession into a chance to thrill.
National Team Squad
Team Name: Los Cafeteros
Goalkeeper: David Ospina, Alvaro Montero, Camilo Vargas
Defender: Johan Mojica, Jhon Lucumi, Yerry Mina
Midfielder: Jefferson Lerma, Jhon Arias, James Rodriguez, Richard Rios
Forward: Luis Suarez, Rafael Santos Borre, Luis Diaz, Jhon Cordoba
Match Highlights
- Group Stage (Match 24): Colombia vs. Uzbekistan
- Match Date: Wednesday, 17 June 2026
- Venue: Estadio Azteca, New Mexico
Travel Details - Flights from Colombia to Mexico City
Colombian travelers planning the Mexican gateway for the greatest football tournament have four airports providing frequent flights. The airports include El Dorado International Airport (BOG), Jose Maria Cordova International Airport (MDE), Alfonso Bonilla Aragon International Airport (CLO), and Ernesto Cortissoz International Airport (BAQ). Alfonso CLO and BAQ offer limited nonstop flights via Bogota or Panama City.
El Doardo International Airport (BOG) is the primary hub for flights from Colombia to Mexico City. BOG provides multiple daily nonstop flights that take around 4.5 -5 hours, covering a distance of 1864 miles. Major Airlines operating on this route are Aeromexico, Aviance, Copa Airlines, VivaAerobus, Volaris, GOL Linhas Aereas, WestJet, and Aerolineas Argentinas.
Jose Maria Cordova International Airport (MDE) is located in Medellin and offers several weekly nonstop flights, with daily options via Bogota or Panama City. The flight time from MDE to MEX is 5 hours, covering over 1801 miles. With limited service, few airlines operate in MDE, including Aeromexico, Copa Airlines, and VivaAerobus.
Mexico City
- Departure Airports: El Dorado International Airport (BOG), Jose Maria Cordova International Airport (MDE), Alfonso Bonilla Aragon International Airport (CLO), and Ernesto Cortissoz International Airport (BAQ)
- Arrival Airport: Mexico City International Airport (MEX), also called Benito Juárez International Airport
- Distance between Colombia and MEX: 2,295 miles
- Flight Duration: 4-5 hours (direct flights)
- Major Airlines: Avianca, Copa Airlines, Aeromexico, American Airlines, Delta, and United
Intercity Travel
Distance between MEX & Estadio Azteca: 12.42 miles
Metro + Light Rail: Line 2 (Blue) - Tasquena - Tren Ligero to Estadio Azteca (1 hour)
Taxi/Ride-Sharing: Uber, Didi, or Local Taxis (30-40 minutes)
Bus Service: Numerous buses connect central Mexico City to the Stadium (45-60 minutes)
Accommodation Near Estadio Azteca
After traveling long distances, fans from Mexican states, South Africa, Uzbekistan, Colombia, or any other country will need a cozy place to stay. Therefore, booking the ideal hotel is necessary. That will provide convenience, safety, restful recovery, and a spot to stay longer if plans change.
Fans traveling to Mexico City for the upcoming World’s Biggest Tournament can find excellent accommodations near Estadio Azteca (stadium), allowing them to experience the FIFA World Cup 2026 without any stress.
For fans traveling to watch the FIFA World Cup Opening Match, the city offers numerous accommodation options. Find budget-friendly to high-end luxurious hotels that perfectly fit your requirements. Below are hotels nearest to Estadio Azteca:
1. Hotel Maria Rico (budget-friendly)
Location: Near National Cinematheque, Mexico City
Distance: 4.6 miles from Estadio Azteca
Travel time: 20-25 minutes by car
Review Highlights: Praised for its value for money and friendly staff. Rooms are simple, ideal for fans seeking affordability.
2. Hotel Amido Zocalo (budget-friendly)
Location: Historic Center
Distance from Stadium: 12 miles
Travel Duration: 35-45 minutes (car)
Review: Set in an excellent location, and it offers easy access to public transport. The rooms are small, but perfect for budget-conscious travelers.
3. Casa Blanca Boutique & Organic (Boutique Stays)
Location: Coyoacan district
Distance from Estadio Azteca: 6 miles
Travel time: 30 minutes by car
Review: Locally eco-friendly design, personalized service, and artistic vibe. Feels like staying in a cultural home rather than a hotel
4. Hotel Boutique Casa de la Luz (Boutique Stays)
Location: Centro Historico
Distance: 11 miles
Travel duration: 40 minutes (car)
Reviews: Known for colonial architecture, stunning rooftop views, and attentive staff. Ideal spot for those wanting a boutique experience with historic charm
5. Radisson Paraiso Hotel Mexico City (Luxury hotel)
Location: Perisur area, southern Mexico City
Distance from the Estadio Azteca: 3 miles
Travel time: 20 minutes (car)
Reviews: This is the closest one to Estadio Azteca. It offers spacious rooms and professional service. It can be considered the best upscale option closest to the stadium of FIFA 2026 in Mexico City.
6. Camino Real Pedregal México
Location: Pedregal district
Distance to Estadio Azteca: 5 miles
Travel duration: 20 minutes
Reviews: Known for modern design, it offers comfortable beds and fine dining options.
7. St. Regis Mexico City (Luxury hotel)
Location: Paseo de la Reforma, central Mexico City
Distance from Estadio Azteca: 13 miles
Travel duration: 45 minutes by car, taxi, or ride share
Reviews: The most luxurious hotel in Mexico City. It offers a rooftop pool, spa, and panoramic view of the city. Ideal for travelers seeking a 5-star experience.
Cultural Immersions for FIFA fans
Beyond football, fans are also travelling to experience the host city, its culture, local dishes, iconic monuments, and much more. As numerous fans will be visiting Mexico City for the first time, everyone will want to explore the host city, its famous landmarks, restaurants, gardens, and spots known for unique experiences.
The most famous cultural spots to explore in Mexico City include the Frida Kahlo Museum, Xochimilco Canals, Chapultepec Park & Castle, Museo Nacional de Antropología, Centro Historico, Museo Diego Rivera Anahuacalli, Plaza Garibaldi, and Arena Mexico. Many of these attractions are located near the Estadio Azteca, allowing visitors to gain a deeper connection to Mexico.
Fans who are wondering where to dine and enjoy the local delicacies of Mexico can plan their visits to iconic restaurants, markets, and cantinas. Some known spots that you can add to your lists include El Huequito, El Cardenal, Mercado de Coyoacan, Mercado de San Juan, Taqueria Los Cocuyos, Catina La Opera, Pulqueria Los Insurgentes, and Licoreria Limantour.
Mexico City is considered to have one of the most vibrant nightlife scenes, which all the fans are going to love. Therefore, pack your essentials for the night, and set out to explore the city's vibrant side. Visit spots like Plaza Garibaldi, Arena Mexico, Mama Rumba, Patrick Miller, Zona Rosa Nightclubs, Licoreria Limantour, Cityzen Rooftop Bar, and Terraza Catedral. These venues will be ideal spots for fans to celebrate FIFA 2025, ensuring you find the perfect way to enjoy Mexico beyond the stadium.
Weather in Mexico City during FIFA 2026
The weather during the FIFA World Cup 2026 is going to be mild, with sunny mornings and rainy afternoons. As Mexico City’s altitude is 2,240 meters, the temperature can feel cooler at night and may cause mild fatigue to visitors who are not used to high altitudes. Consider packing light layers and comfortable shoes. Also, carry a rain jacket, hat, sunscreen, sunglasses, and a water bottle to stay hydrated. The temperature during match days will be around 18 to 26 °C; in the evening, it can drop to around 10-14 °C. Due to high-altitude, strong UV exposure, 12-13 hours of daylight are expected. So be prepared.
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