Military Presence on the Streets as Violent Protests Rock Mexico City Ahead of Opening Match

Mexico City will host the opening match of the 2026 World Cup tonight, Thursday at 22:00, but just hours before kickoff between Mexico and South Africa at the Azteca, the atmosphere in the capital is far from festive. Alongside the natural excitement surrounding the world’s biggest sporting event, public debate in the country is focusing mainly on the high ticket prices, the social protests and the heightened security deployed across the city.

One of the main issues occupying the Mexican public is the price of tickets for the tournament matches. While previous World Cups held in the country, in 1970 and 1986, were seen as a popular and relatively accessible celebration, many now argue that this time the event is meant for the wealthy only. According to RMC Sport, the few remaining single tickets are being sold for as much as 120,000 pesos, about 6,000 euros. Even the cheapest tickets were offered at around 38,000 pesos, about 1,500 euros. These prices are drawing sharp criticism in a country where the average monthly salary is only about 700 euros. "Real football fans won’t be there," said Mexican historian Carlos Calderón Cardoso. "At these prices, this is a World Cup for the rich and influencers, not for ordinary fans."

Disappointment is also being voiced among supporters. Fabian, a Mexican fan who bought a ticket for the opening match, said he needed significant financial help in order to afford attending. His friend Marco compared the current prices with the 2018 World Cup in Russia: "There I paid less than $300 for a ticket. Now we paid $2,500. It is hard to understand that gap. Football is supposed to belong to everyone."

Alongside the uproar over ticket prices, Mexico is also facing growing social tension. In recent weeks, the national teachers’ union has held a series of protests against the government, demanding pay raises and improved working conditions. The demonstrations, held at several central locations in the capital, have raised concerns about disruptions during the opening match as well. Authorities believe the protesters are seeking to use the enormous international exposure brought by the World Cup to increase pressure on decision-makers. "The government wants to present a positive image of Mexico to the world, so this is an ideal time for them to demand solutions," explained former player José Antonio Noriega.

Against the backdrop of fears over protests and unrest, authorities have launched a broad security operation around the Azteca Stadium, which will host the opening match. According to reports, around 100,000 security personnel, including soldiers, federal police, local forces and private security guards, will be deployed around the stadium and at the city’s main gathering points. Helicopters, planes and drones will also be used as part of the tournament’s special security plan. The reinforced military presence is already being felt in the streets of Mexico City, especially around the Angel of Independence square, one of the symbols of the Mexican national team’s celebrations over the years.

Despite the criticism, the protests and the tension, many in Mexico believe that once the tournament begins, the picture will change. "There is great joy here, like in any country hosting the World Cup," Noriega said. "But in Mexico there is also a special passion for football. When the matches begin, everyone, from the government to the last fan, will get into the mood."