Mexico City readies opening match of 2026 World Cup as teachers' union protests intensify

Mexico City is preparing to host the opening match of the 2026 FIFA World Cup on June 11, pitting the host nation against South Africa at the historic Estadio Azteca. Security authorities have launched “Plan Kukulkan,” deploying roughly 100,000 personnel—including about 20,000 military and 55,000 police—to the three host cities of Mexico City, Monterrey and Guadalajara. The massive deployment responds to planned protests by the CNTE teachers’ union, which has set up encampments in the Zócalo, toppled promotional statues and threatened to block access routes to the stadium and fan festival area.

Organisers are weighing a possible relocation of the fan festival from the Zócalo amid concerns over safety and the broader challenges of cartel violence and petty crime in the city. Meanwhile, viewers can watch the kickoff on Fox at 3 p.m. ET, with streaming options through Fubo, DirecTV Stream and Sling, all offering free‑trial or introductory deals for new customers.

The match will be followed by Mexico’s Group A games against South Korea and South Africa’s clash with Czechia on June 18.