Mexico prepares for World Cup opening match amid protests

Mexico City's Azteca Stadium is undergoing final preparations for the opening match of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, scheduled to take place this week. The event is proceeding despite ongoing protests in Mexico related to the country's political and economic climate. Security measures are being heightened around the stadium and fan zones to manage potential disruptions. The tournament is expected to draw an estimated 3.5 million spectators across all venues in Mexico, the United States, and Canada, with the opening ceremony and match anticipated to be a significant global broadcast event. FIFA officials have expressed confidence in Mexico's ability to host the event safely, citing extensive planning with local authorities over the past two years. The economic impact for Mexico is projected to be upwards of $1.2 billion, with significant contributions from tourism and hospitality sectors.