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If you’re planning to experience the excitement of the 2026 FIFA World Cup in Mexico City, this detailed guide on Estadio Banorte — popularly known as Estadio Azteca — covers everything you need to know.

Estadio Banorte will stage a total of five matches during the 2026 World Cup, including the highly anticipated opening match of the tournament. It will also be the venue for Mexico’s final group stage game.

Situated in Mexico City, Estadio Banorte (widely recognized as Estadio Azteca) has been home to some of the most iconic football moments and legendary players in history. It remains the only stadium ever to have hosted two FIFA World Cup finals — in 1970 and 1986. Notably, it was here in 1986 that Diego Maradona scored his unforgettable ‘Hand of God’ goal.

In 2026, Estadio Banorte will once again make history by becoming the first stadium to host matches in three separate World Cup editions, reaffirming its legendary status in global football.

Whether you’re a passionate football supporter or simply visiting Mexico City for the tournament, this guide provides all essential information to help you plan your visit to this historic ground.

Which matches will be played at Estadio Banorte during the 2026 World Cup?

Estadio Banorte is set to host five fixtures overall — three group stage matches, one Round of 32 game, and one Round of 16 encounter.

How to buy World Cup 2026 tickets for Estadio Banorte?

At present, all major phases of the official World Cup ticketing process — including the Visa Presale, Early Ticket Draw, and Random Selection Draw — have been completed. Over 500 million ticket requests were processed across these stages, leaving very limited primary ticket availability.

Overview of Estadio Banorte

History of Estadio Banorte

Estadio Azteca’s heritage is deeply tied to the evolution of world football. Since its inauguration in 1966, it has undergone several phases of renovation — first after the 1986 World Cup, and later in 1999, 2013, and 2016.

As part of preparations for the 2026 tournament, Estadio Banorte is presently undergoing a major modernization project. Although officially renamed after Banorte Bank acquired the naming rights, FIFA regulations mean the venue will be referred to by its original name, Estadio Azteca, during the World Cup.

The stadium already boasts a vast capacity of more than 87,000 spectators. Following the latest renovation, it’s expected to reopen with seating for nearly 90,000 fans, making it one of the marquee venues of the event.

Teams that play at Estadio Banorte

The iconic venue regularly hosts Mexico’s national team matches as well as domestic fixtures for Club América and Cruz Azul.

How to reach Estadio Banorte

By Public Transport: Estadio Banorte is well-connected by public transportation. Locals recommend using the Metro and Light Rail system. Metro Line 2 (Blue Line) runs to Tasqueña Station, where travelers can switch to the Xochimilco Light Rail. The line features a stop named Estadio Azteca, located directly opposite the stadium entrance.

Several bus services also operate routes linking Tasqueña with the stadium area, though the specific routes vary depending on your starting point.

By Car: Key approach roads to the stadium include Calzada de Tlalpan, Acoxpa, Periférico, and Circuito Azteca. Parking facilities are available, but using public transport is strongly advised due to heavy traffic congestion and long exit times on matchdays.

Guided Tours at Estadio Banorte

Currently, guided tours are suspended while renovation work continues. However, Estadio Banorte typically offers the ‘Azteca Tour’ year-round, giving visitors an inside look at the venue. The experience includes walking onto the pitch, exploring locker rooms, visiting the press area and marathon tunnel, and viewing commemorative plaques and insignia.

On matchdays, the tour closes six hours before kickoff to prepare for event operations.

Food and Drink Options Near Estadio Banorte

Visitors will find an excellent variety of food options both inside and around the stadium. Inside, numerous concession stands serve snacks, drinks, and quick bites. In the nearby neighborhoods of Coapa and San Lorenzo Huipulco, fans can explore a range of restaurants, taco stalls, and local eateries offering authentic Mexican dishes.

Many supporters prefer to enjoy post-match meals at small local spots serving traditional street tacos and other regional favorites. Although simple, these eateries deliver genuine Mexican flavors.

For those seeking more formal dining, Restaurante Parque Asturias, Cachito de Cuba, and Lucrecia Coyoacan are popular choices, particularly for groups and families looking for a sit-down experience.