Trump effigy and mass riots: Mexico City erupts against 2026 World Cup
Mass protests in Mexico City ahead of 2026 World Cup (photo: La Izquierda Diario)
Mass protests erupted in Mexico City ahead of the warm-up game between the national teams of Mexico and Portugal. Demonstrators voiced opposition to holding the 2026 World Cup in the country, according to La Izquierda Diario.
Reconstruction of Azteca sparks anger
The public unrest was triggered by large-scale construction work at the legendary Estadio Banorte (formerly known as “Azteca”).
The stadium’s modernization project includes a major shopping center and hotel complex.
Local activists, including students and environmentalists, argue that such development will lead to a critical shortage of water resources, traffic paralysis, and a sharp rise in rental prices in the area.
Forceful dispersal and 10,000 police officers
Saturday’s rally quickly escalated into a violent confrontation. Protesters blocked roads near the stadium, prompting authorities to deploy around 10,000 police officers.
During the dispersal, reports of excessive use of force by law enforcement were recorded. Some participants also reported missing personal belongings during the clashes.
The activists gave the protest a political tone by using a mannequin of U.S. President Donald Trump and leaving messages on the roads labeling the upcoming tournament as a “World Cup of theft.”
Mexico’s role in the 2026 World Cup
The upcoming tournament, co-hosted by the United States, Mexico, and Canada, is scheduled to begin on June 11.
The Azteca Stadium has been chosen as the venue for the opening match between the host nation and South Africa. Overall, the legendary stadium will host five World Cup matches.
Amid preparations for the tournament, diplomatic movements are also underway in other football associations.
Specifically, after Ukraine’s national team completed its play-off against Sweden for the 2026 World Cup, the Football Federation of Ukraine (FFU) and the Swedish side officially signed a memorandum on strategic partnership.
Earlier reports indicated that some 2026 World Cup matches in the U.S. could be at risk of not taking place.
