Mexican teachers protest wage demands ahead of 2026 World Cup

Teachers in Mexico City have staged large‑scale protests demanding up to a 100% salary increase before the opening of the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The more militant CNTE union called a national strike, while the main teachers’ union SNTE proposed a 13% raise, citing inflation. Demonstrators blocked major avenues, occupied the Zócalo fan zone and caused estimated economic losses of about R$119 million through disruptions and vandalism. President Claudia Sheinbaum called the actions a “provocation” but avoided harsh repression to protect the country’s international image.

Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula said he would phone Sheinbaum to discuss the unrest, comparing it to the 2013 protests that preceded Dilma Rousseff’s impeachment. Lula also raised concerns about a possible U.S. tariff on Brazilian products and highlighted Brazil’s recent deforestation reductions, while noting ongoing tariff negotiations with the United States.