Mexico's World Cup win sparks huge celebrations, leaves 40 t tonnes of trash in CDMX

Mexico's 1‑0 victory over South Korea in the Group A stage of the 2026 FIFA World Cup prompted massive public celebrations across the country. In Mexico City, an estimated 400,000 fans gathered at the Angel of Independence, Paseo de la Reforma, the Zócalo and surrounding streets, while other cities such as Guadalajara, Monterrey and Nuevo León hosted fan‑fest events and cultural programmes featuring folk music and dance.

The overnight festivities generated about 40 tonnes of waste, including cans, bottles, food wrappers and discarded banners. The city’s Secretaría de Obras y Servicios (SOBSE) deployed more than 300 cleaners, 23 collection vehicles, six pressure‑washers and a water tanker to clear the debris and restore traffic. Clara Brugada, head of government of Mexico City, urged citizens to keep public spaces clean.

National leaders, including President‑elect Claudia Sheinbaum, praised the team and highlighted the collective joy of Mexicans. Parallel concerns were raised: the Red Nacional de Refugios warned that World Cup celebrations could trigger spikes in gender‑based violence, and authorities in Chihuahua announced stricter controls on alcohol and vehicle access at the Francisco Villa roundabout for future matches. The events illustrate both the cultural enthusiasm and the logistical challenges linked to hosting a major international sport tournament.