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Estadio AztecaGetty Images

Suite holders to be granted free access to World Cup matches at former Estadio Azteca

  • Months of uncertainty finally resolved
  • The stadium is undergoing renovations
  • The World Cup opener will be played there
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  • FBL-MEXICO-WC2026-AZTECA-STADIUMAFP

    WHAT HAPPENED?

    After weeks of negotiations, FIFA and Estadio Banorte - which will be rebranded as Estadio Ciudad de México for the tournament - have finally reached an agreement granting suite and box holders free access to all 2026 World Cup matches hosted at the venue.

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  • Estadio Azteca Clausura 2022Cortesía: Getty

    THE BIGGER PICTURE

    In a statement, Estadio Banorte confirmed that long-term suite owners and box seat holders will be admitted at no additional cost to the matches staged there next summer: “These discussions took considerable time, as our stadium was the only one among the 16 World Cup venues with particularly complex ownership conditions.”

  • FBL-MEXICO-WC2026-AZTECA-STADIUMAFP

    DID YOU KNOW?

    Estadio Banorte is unique in that many of its suites were sold under 100-year contracts, creating a legal challenge around ticketing rights. Ultimately, FIFA and stadium officials resolved the matter, ensuring that suite holders will maintain their privileges during the tournament.

  • Estadio Azteca México 2022Cortesía: Getty

    WHAT NEXT ?

    The stadium will host five matches, including the highly anticipated opening game on June 11, 2026. Renovations are still underway, with the venue expected to reopen in March 2026 with a friendly between Mexico and Portugal.