Estadio Azteca
Estadio Azteca, currently known as Estadio Banorte under a naming rights agreement, is an association football stadium in the Coyoacán borough of Mexico City, Mexico.[1][2] Opened on 29 May 1966 with an inauguration match between Club América and Torino FC, it holds an official capacity of 87,523 spectators, positioning it as Mexico's largest stadium and a key venue at 2,200 meters above sea level.[2][3][4] The stadium serves as the primary home ground for Club América and frequently hosts matches for the Mexico national team, while also accommodating Cruz Azul for select fixtures such as derbies.[5][6] It stands out for hosting the FIFA World Cup finals in both 1970—where Brazil defeated Italy 4–1, capped by Pelé's last international goal—and 1986, featuring Argentina's 3–2 victory over West Germany amid Diego Maradona's infamous "Hand of God" goal and solo "Goal of the Century."[5][7] As the sole venue to stage two World Cup finals, it also hosted the semifinal dubbed the "Game of the Century" in 1970, an extra-time thriller won 4–3 by Italy over West Germany.[5] Selected to open the expanded 2026 FIFA World Cup on 11 June with a match involving Mexico, the stadium underwent renovations to meet modern standards while preserving its historical architecture.[8][9]History
Construction and Inauguration (1966–1968)
The construction of Estadio Azteca was spearheaded by Emilio Azcárraga Milmo, a media executive and key figure in Club América's ownership through Telesistema Mexicano (predecessor to Televisa), who sought to create a premier football venue amid Mexico's preparations to host the 1968 Summer Olympics. Groundbreaking occurred in 1962 on a site in Mexico City's Santa Úrsula neighborhood, with funding largely derived from private sales of luxury boxes and premium seating rights, a mechanism Azcárraga Milmo established to finance the project without primary reliance on public funds.[2][10][11] Architects Pedro Ramírez Vázquez and Rafael Mijares Alcérreca designed the stadium, employing Vázquez's signature reinforced concrete construction for its durability and scalability, resulting in a multi-tiered bowl structure capable of accommodating large crowds. Construction progressed rapidly, emphasizing engineering efficiency to meet timelines for both domestic football needs and the upcoming Olympics, with the core framework completed by 1966 at a reported site development cost of 260 million pesos.[12][13][10] The stadium opened on May 29, 1966, with an inaugural friendly match between Club América and Italy's Torino F.C., attended by over 100,000 spectators in an initial configuration seating approximately 107,000. In advance of the 1968 Olympics, modifications including the addition of a partial roof were implemented to enhance functionality for international events, solidifying the venue's role as a symbol of Mexico's mid-20th-century infrastructural ambitions.[2][14]Early Years and Pre-1970 Developments
The Estadio Azteca commenced operations following its inauguration on May 29, 1966, with a friendly match between Club América and Italian club Torino FC, which concluded in a 2–2 draw.[2] This event drew an attendance of approximately 107,494 spectators, highlighting the stadium's initial capacity and its immediate adoption as the primary home ground for Club América in Mexico's Primera División (predecessor to Liga MX).[15] Domestic league fixtures hosted there during 1966–1969 established patterns of high attendance for local matches, positioning the venue as Mexico City's central hub for professional football and surpassing capacities of older facilities like the Estadio Olímpico Universitario.[16] Preparations for the 1968 Summer Olympics included operational adaptations such as improved event logistics and temporary seating adjustments to accommodate football tournament requirements, though the stadium's core use shifted toward football dominance post-opening rather than broader multi-sport applications.[10] These enhancements facilitated smoother crowd management and infrastructure readiness, bridging early domestic operations to international standards ahead of the 1970 FIFA World Cup. The high-altitude setting at 7,200 feet (2,200 meters) introduced environmental factors like reduced air density, primarily impacting athletic performance rather than documented structural maintenance, with no major reported weathering issues in the initial years.[17] Attendance trends in pre-1970 domestic games reflected the stadium's draw for Liga MX contests, often exceeding 100,000 for marquee Club América fixtures, though precise average figures and revenue specifics from this era lack comprehensive archival data beyond inaugural benchmarks.[18] This period cemented the Azteca's reputation for generating significant fan engagement in Mexican football, distinct from later tournament-driven spikes.1970 FIFA World Cup Era
Estadio Azteca hosted six matches during the 1970 FIFA World Cup, including the opening fixture between Mexico and the Soviet Union on 31 May and the final between Brazil and Italy on 21 June. The stadium accommodated crowds nearing its capacity of 107,247 for these events, with the final drawing an attendance of 107,412 spectators. Brazil secured a 4–1 victory in the decisive match, clinching their third World Cup title.[19][5] To support the tournament's demands, the venue underwent preparations for enhanced broadcast capabilities, enabling the first full-color television coverage of a World Cup, which transmitted the games to a global audience. Logistical measures included provisions for temporary expansions in spectator areas and infrastructure to handle influxes of international visitors, though specific details on added seating remain limited in records. These adaptations ensured smooth operations amid the high-altitude environment at 2,240 meters above sea level, contributing to the event's atmospheric intensity.[20] The 1970 tournament elevated Estadio Azteca's international profile, establishing it as a premier football venue and spurring long-term recognition in global sports infrastructure. Post-event, the stadium retained its core facilities, which supported ongoing major matches and fostered growth in Mexican football participation and investment, as the successful hosting demonstrated the nation's capacity for large-scale sporting events. This legacy persisted, with the venue's role underscoring advancements in stadium design and event management that influenced subsequent developments in Latin American sports facilities.[20][5]1986 FIFA World Cup and Subsequent Maintenance
The Estadio Azteca escaped significant damage from the September 19, 1985, Mexico City earthquake, which measured 8.0 in magnitude and caused widespread destruction in the capital, allowing preparations for the 1986 FIFA World Cup to proceed without major seismic retrofitting.[21] Renovations focused on expanding capacity from approximately 105,000 to 114,600 spectators to meet tournament demands, including upgrades to seating and facilities ahead of the event hosted by Mexico after Colombia's withdrawal in 1982.[22] These efforts enabled the stadium to host the opening match between Mexico and Bulgaria on May 31, 1986, as well as several quarterfinal matches, including Argentina's controversial 2–1 victory over England on June 22, 1986.[23] Hosting the tournament amid Mexico's severe economic debt crisis—exacerbated by the 1982 default—and the recent seismic disaster positioned the Estadio Azteca as a symbol of national resilience, drawing global attention and reinforcing its status as a premier football venue capable of sustaining large-scale international events.[16] The event's success, with the stadium accommodating over 114,000 fans per match, temporarily boosted morale and infrastructure utilization, though underlying structural wear from prior decades persisted.[22] In the immediate aftermath, maintenance was largely deferred due to fiscal constraints, leading to gradual deterioration of concrete elements, seating, and ancillary systems through the late 1980s and 1990s, with only routine repairs documented sporadically.[24] By the early 2000s, observable aging—such as cracking in upper tiers and outdated utilities—highlighted the lack of comprehensive post-World Cup overhauls, prioritizing operational continuity over proactive preservation amid competing national priorities.[25] This approach preserved the venue's functionality for domestic leagues but deferred major interventions until later decades, reflecting causal trade-offs between short-term event hosting and long-term asset management in resource-limited contexts.2016 Partial Renovation
In 2016, Estadio Azteca underwent a partial renovation primarily aimed at addressing aging infrastructure and enhancing spectator safety and comfort through the installation of individual seating throughout the venue. This work replaced overcrowded bench-style arrangements with fixed chairs, significantly reducing the stadium's capacity from over 110,000 to approximately 87,000.[26][27] The changes aligned with Liga MX requirements for seated spectators to mitigate risks associated with standing crowds and poor sightlines in older sections.[16] Key modifications included redesigning several stand sections to incorporate roofed VIP areas, which further prioritized premium viewing while improving overall egress and fire safety compliance. These upgrades were executed during the off-season to minimize disruptions to Club América's Liga MX schedule, allowing matches to resume without major interruptions post-completion. Critics noted that the VIP expansions contributed to the capacity drop but argued they were necessary for modernizing fan amenities amid the stadium's nearly 50-year age.[28] The renovation yielded verifiable improvements in safety ratings, as the seated configuration reduced overcrowding incidents reported in prior years and better met domestic regulatory standards for large-scale events. Post-2016 assessments confirmed enhanced comfort, with no major structural failures during subsequent high-attendance games, bridging the venue's maintenance needs until more extensive works in the 2020s.[28][2]2022–2025 Major Renovation Project
The renovation project for Estadio Azteca, initiated in planning phases during 2022 and commencing major construction in 2023, received significant financial support through a March 2025 loan of 2.1 billion pesos (approximately $105 million) from Grupo Financiero Banorte, repayable over 12 years in exchange for naming rights, supplementing prior investments of 1.5 billion pesos by stadium owner Ollamani SAB de CV.[29][30] Overall costs exceed $200 million, focused on achieving FIFA compliance for the 2026 World Cup, including upgrades to seating for expanded hospitality and VIP areas, new changing rooms, media and anti-doping facilities, and technological enhancements such as virtual reality experiences for spectators.[31][32] Key infrastructural improvements encompass increasing the stadium's capacity from 87,523 to over 90,000 seats, installing more than 2,200 square meters of LED screens both internally and on the facade, and transitioning to a hybrid grass pitch surface to enhance durability and play quality.[9][33][34] These modifications address longstanding maintenance issues while prioritizing fan comfort and broadcast standards, though the project has necessitated halting non-soccer events, including NFL international games from 2023 through 2025, with the league's last Mexico City matchup occurring in November 2022.[35][36] As of October 2025, the site remains an active construction zone with evident delays, including unfinished facade repainting and LED installations, raising concerns over readiness for the World Cup opener scheduled for June 11, 2026, despite official targets for substantial completion by late 2025.[37][38] Reopening is now projected for March 28, 2026, potentially featuring a friendly match between Mexico and Portugal to test facilities ahead of the tournament, though logistical uncertainties persist.[39][40]Design and Facilities
Architectural Features and Capacity Evolution
The Estadio Azteca features an oval bowl design, diverging from the rectangular format prevalent in many modern stadiums, constructed primarily with reinforced concrete and steel for structural stability.[26][41] This Brutalist-style architecture incorporates numerous concrete struts to enhance resistance against seismic activity in Mexico City's earthquake-prone region.[42] The stadium remains roofless, preserving natural acoustics and unobstructed visibility for spectators across its tiered seating.[43] The playing field measures 105 meters in length by 68 meters in width, adhering to standard FIFA dimensions, and is positioned 9.5 meters below ground level within the excavated bowl.[44][2] At an elevation of approximately 2,240 meters above sea level, the thinner air reduces oxygen availability, impacting player endurance, while decreased air density allows balls to travel farther with less resistance.[45] Capacity has evolved significantly for safety and comfort. Initially accommodating over 107,000 spectators, it peaked at around 114,000 in the 1970s before reductions to meet modern standards; post-2016 modifications lowered it to 87,523 seats.[27][16][26] Ongoing updates aim to restore capacity above 90,000 while enhancing amenities.[46]Pitch Specifications and Surface History
The playing field at Estadio Azteca measures 105 meters in length by 68 meters in width, conforming to FIFA's recommended dimensions for international matches.[47][48] Historically, the stadium has relied on natural grass surfaces, initially Kikuyu grass, which repeatedly deteriorated under heavy usage from frequent soccer fixtures, American football games, and large-scale concerts that compacted soil and eroded turf.[49] This overuse led to verifiable performance issues, including a 2018 NFL International Series game between the Los Angeles Rams and Kansas City Chiefs being relocated to Los Angeles on November 19 due to severe divots, uneven patches, and safety risks exacerbated by prior concerts and rainfall.[50][51] In response to these failures, stadium operators installed a hybrid turf system in May 2018, blending natural grass with synthetic fibers to enhance resilience against the venue's demanding schedule of over 50 events annually.[49] However, the surface quickly degraded, with BBC reporting large divots and bumpy conditions by November 2018, attributing problems to inadequate adaptation for Mexico City's high-altitude climate and multi-purpose strain, prompting a reversion to pure natural grass in June 2019.[28][52] As part of the 2022–2025 renovation for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, the pitch is being upgraded with a reinforced hybrid system incorporating advanced ventilation, drainage, and air-injection technologies to mitigate past erosion and ensure compliance with FIFA durability standards for high-stakes matches.[34][53] These enhancements address causal factors like soil compaction from non-soccer events, aiming for a surface capable of withstanding intensified international play without prior cancellation risks.[38]Seating, Amenities, and Technological Upgrades
The Estadio Azteca's seating configuration has transitioned from predominantly general admission tiers to incorporate premium and executive options, enhancing spectator comfort and exclusivity. It includes 38 executive boxes on the west side near the press area, each equipped with living spaces, television screens, private restrooms, and personalized food and beverage service.[54] The 2022–2025 renovations added over 5,000 premium seats and expanded VIP lounges, alongside 12,500 individual box spaces, to accommodate high-end hospitality demands.[55][56] Amenities encompass modern restroom facilities distributed across all levels, upgraded during recent works to improve hygiene and flow.[26] Hospitality zones feature expanded food courts and in-seat vendor services for Mexican snacks and beverages, while elevators facilitate vertical movement.[57][58] Upgraded toilets and media facilities support broader operational needs.[34] Technological upgrades include over 2,200 square meters of high-resolution LED screens installed throughout the venue for enhanced viewing and exterior wrapping of approximately 2,000 square meters.[34][38] Recent electronic system overhauls incorporate state-of-the-art lighting, sound systems, and virtual reality experiences for fans.[26][32] Accessibility enhancements, such as added elevators and ramps introduced in the 2016 partial renovation, prioritize mobility for diverse attendees, with further improvements in the major overhaul aligning to international standards.[53][26] These modifications, including compliance with FIFA safety protocols through structural reinforcements and updated infrastructure, ensure post-renovation adherence to global venue regulations.[39][38]Location and Accessibility
Geographic and Urban Context
The Estadio Azteca is situated in the Santa Úrsula neighborhood of Mexico City, at coordinates 19°18′13″N 99°08′28″W, placing it in the southern portion of the metropolitan area amid a densely urbanized landscape.[59] The site occupies elevated terrain typical of the Valley of Mexico basin, rising to approximately 2,200 meters (7,200 feet) above sea level, which contributes to thinner air and environmental challenges for physical exertion.[60] This high-altitude setting, combined with the city's basin geography that traps pollutants, exposes the stadium to Mexico City's chronic air quality issues, including smog from vehicular emissions and industrial activity, which have historically impacted athletic performance and visibility during daytime events.[61] The stadium's construction addressed the site's challenging subsurface conditions, requiring the displacement of 180 million kilograms of rock across 64,000 square meters to establish a stable foundation suitable for large-scale engineering.[62] Mexico City's position in a seismically active zone, influenced by the subduction of the Cocos Plate beneath the North American Plate, necessitated design features such as reinforced concrete frameworks to enhance resilience against ground shaking, as demonstrated by minimal structural damage during the 7.1-magnitude 2017 Puebla earthquake.[2] Urban integration reflects the stadium's role within a sprawling conurbation of over 9 million residents in the core city and 21 million in the greater metropolitan area, with surrounding zones featuring residential communities and institutional facilities that underscore its embedding in everyday urban fabric rather than isolated suburban expanse.[63]Transportation, Parking, and Entry Protocols
Public transportation serves as the primary access method to Estadio Azteca, with the Mexico City Metro Line 2 (Tasqueña station) connecting to the Tren Ligero light rail's Estadio Azteca station on the stadium's east side.[26][64] Buses and event-specific shuttles from central locations supplement this, though traffic congestion often extends travel times during peak events.[65] Parking facilities are limited relative to the venue's 87,523 capacity, offering approximately 3,500 spaces across general lots with seven access gates, available four hours prior to events.[66][67] Costs range from $5 to $25 depending on proximity and event type, with post-event exit delays common due to surrounding roads like Calzada de Tlalpan.[68] Entry occurs via multiple numbered gates aligned with seating sections, featuring security scans by auxiliary police and private personnel.[69][67] Bag policies restrict items to small sizes (up to 55 × 40 × 25 cm), prohibiting large bags, outside alcohol, and certain objects to streamline checks and enhance safety.[64][26] Since hosting over 100,000 spectators for 1970 FIFA World Cup matches, the stadium has implemented crowd flow protocols, including phased entry and exit staggering, to manage high-volume attendance without reported systemic failures.[70] The 2022–2025 renovation, aimed at 2026 World Cup readiness, includes access upgrades to meet FIFA standards, such as enhanced screening and hospitality zones, with full reopening scheduled for March 2026 and capacity expansion to 90,000.[39][38] Event-specific FIFA rules will govern bags and protocols during tournament games.[69]Ownership, Naming, and Governance
Historical Ownership Structure
The Estadio Azteca was developed through a private consortium established in 1960 as the Sociedad de Fútbol del Distrito Federal, led by Emilio Azcárraga Milmo, owner of Televisa and Club América, in partnership with fellow club owners from teams such as Atlante and Necaxa, to create a shared venue for multiple professional football clubs.[12] Construction, which commenced that year and concluded in 1966, relied on private financing mechanisms, including the sale of perpetual luxury boxes to investors at around 115,000 pesos each (approximately $9,000 USD contemporaneously), granting buyers lifetime access rights without public funding or direct governmental equity.[71] This structure established ownership firmly in private hands from inception, with no transfer to public entities and subsequent operations sustained through event revenues, rentals, and profit-sharing models rather than state subsidies.[72] Governance evolved under the control of Grupo Televisa, the Azcárraga family's media empire, which consolidated management and emphasized commercial self-sufficiency via diversified income streams from football matches, concerts, and broadcasting tie-ins.[73] Long-term lease arrangements allocated primary tenancy to Club América—itself owned by Televisa-linked interests—and Cruz Azul, enabling shared usage for home games while preserving the stadium's role as a revenue-generating asset under private oversight; these leases feature extended durations, with Cruz Azul's commitments reportedly constraining alternative venue developments until at least 2031.[74] In 2024, operational control shifted to Ollamani S.A.B. de C.V., a subsidiary spun off from Televisa to handle stadium and Club América assets as a publicly listed entity, yet retaining Azcárraga family influence and alignment with Televisa's broader ecosystem, thereby perpetuating the private, corporatized framework without diluting proprietary dominance.[72] This model underscores a consistent emphasis on entrepreneurial governance, where decision-making prioritizes financial viability and event-driven profitability over public or cooperative alternatives.[75]Naming Rights Evolution and 2025 Renaming to Estadio Banorte
The Estadio Azteca maintained its original name without any commercial naming rights agreements from its inauguration on May 29, 1966, until 2025.[2] The designation "Azteca" evoked Mexico's pre-Hispanic Aztec heritage, aligning with the stadium's role as a symbol of national identity and cultural pride.[29] Prior to the 2025 deal, the venue operated under this historic moniker, eschewing corporate sponsorships despite hosting major international events.[30] On March 14, 2025, Mexican financial institution Grupo Banorte secured the stadium's naming rights through a financing partnership, officially renaming it Estadio Banorte.[29] [76] This agreement provided a loan of 2.1 billion Mexican pesos (equivalent to approximately $105 million USD at the time), to be repaid over 12 years, specifically to underwrite the concluding stages of renovations required for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.[29] [75] The renaming represented a strategic pivot to a sponsorship-funded model, necessitated by the escalating financial demands of preserving and upgrading a large-scale, aging facility capable of accommodating over 80,000 spectators.[77] Banorte's involvement extended beyond mere naming, as the funds facilitated critical infrastructure enhancements, including structural reinforcements and modern amenities, ensuring the venue's viability for high-profile matches such as the five scheduled 2026 World Cup games.[29] [78] This corporate infusion addressed the limitations of traditional revenue streams in an era of rising maintenance costs and regulatory standards for international competitions.[43]Monuments and Memorials
On-Site Statues and Plaques
The Estadio Azteca hosts several commemorative bronze plaques recognizing pivotal football moments. One such plaque honors the "Game of the Century," the 1970 FIFA World Cup semi-final where Italy defeated West Germany 4-3 in extra time, symbolizing dramatic sporting excellence and installed at an exterior entrance to mark the stadium's early World Cup legacy.[62][79] Another bronze plaque commemorates Diego Maradona's "Goal of the Century" scored against England in the 1986 FIFA World Cup quarter-final, a 60-meter solo run past multiple defenders that embodies individual brilliance and tactical mastery, positioned similarly outside the stadium to evoke the venue's role in World Cup history.[62][80] Additional plaques mark the stadium's 1966 opening and the 1970 and 1986 World Cup finals won by Brazil and Argentina, respectively, highlighting the venue's unique status as host to multiple championship deciders and located at key access points for public visibility.[81][14] A bronze statue of Ignacio "Nachito" Villanueva, a lifelong Club América supporter known for his dedication, stands as the primary on-site sculpture, unveiled on May 29, 2001, by sculptors Rafael Gaytan, Carlos Villanueva, and Masha Zepeda to represent fan loyalty and cultural devotion to the sport, positioned in situ near the stadium grounds.[82]Commemorative Elements Tied to Key Events
The Estadio Azteca preserves several bronze plaques dedicated to landmark matches from the FIFA World Cups of 1970 and 1986, installed to commemorate the venue's role in these tournaments. One prominent plaque honors the 1970 semi-final between Italy and West Germany, dubbed the "Game of the Century," a 4-3 extra-time thriller that highlighted the stadium's capacity for high-stakes drama.[5] Another recognizes Diego Maradona's second goal against England in the 1986 quarter-finals, celebrated as the "Goal of the Century" for its solo dribble past five defenders.[5] These elements underscore the Azteca's historical significance without altering its structural integrity.[2] Additional plaques mark the 1970 final, where Brazil defeated Italy 4-1 to secure their third title, and the 1986 final, in which Argentina triumphed 3-2 over West Germany, with Maradona earning the tournament's Golden Ball.[14] Positioned around the stadium's exterior and entrances, these dedications serve as enduring tributes to the events that elevated the venue's global profile.[81] The surrounding areas also feature complementary murals and engravings that evoke the tournaments' atmosphere, though specific artistic details remain tied to official commemorations rather than independent installations.[2] In preparation for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, ongoing renovations under the Estadio Banorte naming—initiated in 2025—include provisions to safeguard these historical markers amid upgrades to seating, technology, and field systems.[2] No new commemorative elements specific to club achievements, such as Club América's league titles, have been documented at the site, with honors for the team's 16 Liga MX championships primarily reflected through matchday displays rather than permanent fixtures. The stadium's resilience during the 1985 Mexico City earthquake, which caused minimal disruption to operations, lacks a dedicated on-site marker, though its engineering is often cited in historical accounts of the event.[83]Major Events
FIFA World Cup Matches
Estadio Azteca hosted 10 matches during the 1970 FIFA World Cup, including the tournament's opening match, several group stage fixtures, a semifinal regarded as one of the competition's most dramatic encounters, and the final.[84] The stadium accommodated over 100,000 spectators for the decisive games, contributing to its reputation for electric atmospheres at high-altitude conditions.[5] In 1986, the venue staged nine matches, the highest number for any stadium in that edition, encompassing group stage contests, a round-of-16 tie, the quarterfinal featuring Diego Maradona's infamous "Hand of God" goal and "Goal of the Century," and the final won by Argentina.[84] These events drew massive crowds, with the final attracting 114,600 attendees despite capacity constraints.[85] Across both tournaments, the stadium tallied a record 19 World Cup matches, underscoring its central role in Mexico's hosting efforts.[5]1970 Tournament Games
The tournament opened at Estadio Azteca on 31 May 1970 with Mexico's 0–0 draw against the Soviet Union before 107,160 spectators, marking the first World Cup match in North America.[86] Group stage fixtures at the venue included Belgium's 3–0 victory over El Salvador on 3 June and the Soviet Union's 4–1 defeat of Belgium on 6 June.[87] Mexico advanced with a 1–0 win over Belgium on 10 June.[87] A highlight was the 17 June semifinal between Italy and West Germany, ending 4–3 after extra time in a match dubbed the "Game of the Century" for its five goals in the final 32 minutes.[88] The final on 21 June saw Brazil defeat Italy 4–1, securing their third title with Pelé scoring and assisting; captain Carlos Alberto's goal in the 86th minute epitomized the team's flair, watched by 107,160.[86]1986 Tournament Games
The 1986 edition commenced at Estadio Azteca on 31 May with Bulgaria's 1–1 draw against Italy in Group A.[86] Other group stage matches included Mexico's 1–1 tie with Paraguay on 7 June and Argentina's 1–0 win over South Korea on 2 June, though several fixtures rotated across Mexico City venues.[89] The quarterfinal on 22 June featured Argentina's 2–1 victory over England, where Maradona scored with his hand and a solo 60-yard run goal, drawing 114,500 fans.[90] The final on 29 June pitted Argentina against West Germany, ending 3–2 with Maradona assisting the winner via Jorge Burruchaga in the 84th minute before 114,600 spectators.[85]2026 Tournament Preparations and Scheduled Matches
Estadio Azteca will host five matches in the 2026 FIFA World Cup, including the opening fixture on 11 June featuring Mexico against an opponent to be determined following qualification draws.[8] Mexico's group stage includes two games at the venue, with additional knockout-stage contests scheduled, such as a round-of-32 match.[91] [92] Renovations, initiated to comply with FIFA standards, encompass seat replacements, improved pitch quality, and enhanced facilities, reducing capacity to approximately 83,000 from over 100,000 while preserving historical elements; works progressed as of late 2025 to ensure readiness by mid-2026.[93] The stadium's selection leverages its legacy, though high elevation may influence play, as in prior hostings.[94]1970 Tournament Games
Estadio Azteca hosted the two semifinals, the third-place match, and the final of the 1970 FIFA World Cup, drawing record crowds exceeding 100,000 for several games. The tournament marked the first World Cup broadcast in color television, transmitted via satellite to a global audience and enhancing visibility of plays like Pelé's contributions.[20][19] On 17 June, Italy defeated West Germany 4–3 after extra time in the "Game of the Century," with goals from Luigi Riva, Gianni Rivera, and two from Franz Roth for Germany, attended by 102,444 spectators.[95] The following day, 18 June, Brazil advanced with a 3–1 victory over Uruguay, securing their final berth.[19] West Germany claimed third place on 20 June with a 1–0 win against Uruguay.[96] The final on 21 June saw Brazil triumph 4–1 over Italy before 107,412 fans, with Pelé scoring in the 18th minute, followed by Gérson, Jairzinho, and Carlos Alberto; Roberto Boninsegna replied for Italy.[19] This match exemplified Brazil's attacking style under Mário Zagallo, completing their third World Cup title and retaining the Jules Rimet Trophy permanently.[19]