Sheinbaum pledged to gift her 2026 World Cup opening ticket, highlighting Mexico’s historic role as three-time host.
President Claudia Sheinbaum announced on Friday that she will give away the complimentary ticket she received for the 2026 FIFA World Cup opening match in Mexico City.
Sheinbaum, who welcomed FIFA President Gianni Infantino to the National Palace on Thursday, said discussions centered on match venues, infrastructure, and the projected economic benefits of co-hosting the tournament with Canada and the United States. Mexico will stage 13 matches, including the opener at Estadio Banorte (formerly Estadio Azteca) on June 11, 2026.
“I’m thinking of giving the ticket to a young girl who likes soccer and wouldn’t have an opportunity to come to the stadium,” Sheinbaum said at her press conference.
Infantino presented Sheinbaum with a replica of the World Cup trophy and a symbolic “Row 1, Seat 1” ticket. The tournament is expected to generate $3 billion, create 24,000 jobs, and draw 5.5 million visitors.
THIS WAS ORIGINALLY PUBLISHED ON MEXICO NEWS