Mexico teacher protests threaten World Cup opening match

Thousands of teachers from the dissident CNTE union have been on strike in Mexico City since June 1, demanding a 100 % salary increase and the repeal of the 2007 pension law. The protests have involved road blockades around the Azteca Stadium – the venue for the FIFA World Cup 2026 opening match between Mexico and South Africa – and the main access routes to the city’s Zócalo fan zone. Police have erected large concrete barriers and deployed thousands of officers to keep demonstrators from reaching the stadium.

President Claudia Sheinbaum said the government is engaged in dialogue but cannot meet all the demands, adding that “the opening ceremony will be held in peace and tranquility.” A protester, Angel Villalobos, told AFP, “We want to reach the stadium.” FIFA has kept the match schedule unchanged, but officials warn that the logistical and security risks remain high as the opening day approaches on 11 June.