The opening of the 2026 World Cup turned Mexico City’s Zócalo into a massive public celebration, as about 55,000 fans gathered at the FIFA Fan Fest to watch the match on a giant screen. The atmosphere mixed Mexican football culture and street festivity: clown costumes, rattles, flags, wrestling masks, sombreros, and chants filled the square before kickoff. Once the whistle blew, the noise fell into tense silence, broken only by “ole” cheers, boos when the opposing team touched the ball, and the early goal by Julián Quiñones in the eighth minute. For many supporters, the moment renewed hope that Mexico could make a strong run in the tournament.
The Fan Fest reached full capacity hours before kickoff, and crowds were already singing well before the scheduled performances by Shakira and J Balvin. Popular songs by Los Ángeles Azules, Juan Gabriel, and Vicente Fernández helped energize the plaza. Organizers warned that the area was too full and told late arrivals not to come, as police struggled with access to the square. The entrances became jammed, and at least one barrier was broken as more people tried to get in. Many fans were left outside despite having traveled early to secure a place.
Several attendees said they had planned ahead because they expected chaos, especially since much of the metro service was closed. Groups of students arrived early and gathered under umbrellas to escape the midday sun. Others said they had skipped the stadium because ticket prices were too high. For them, the public viewing area offered a chance to experience the World Cup with friends even without a seat in the arena. Among the many reactions inside the Fan Fest, the excitement peaked with a goal from Raúl Jiménez, which led strangers and friends alike to embrace and celebrate together.
The event featured a large FIFA-built stage and screen that dominated the Zócalo, partially obscuring the cathedral. The setup included lighting, sound systems, concert space, activity zones, and a hospitality area with chairs, tables, and restrooms. Food and drinks were available, but many fans complained about poor organization and long waits. Purchases could only be made with a special event card or the Fanki app, adding confusion and frustration. Bottled water and soft drinks were expensive, and buying a simple drink could take up to 45 minutes.
President Claudia Sheinbaum did not attend the Zócalo gathering, despite earlier saying she would watch the game there. Instead, she joined Mexico City Mayor Clara Brugada at another public viewing site in the capital. FIFA president Gianni Infantino was the only official figure shown on screen, and he was booed whenever the cameras focused on him.
Rain began just as the match ended, dampening plans for further celebrations at the Ángel de la Independencia and a Banda El Recodo performance. Even so, some fans remained upbeat, saying the festivities were not over and encouraging others to stay for the next game.
/https://s03.video.glbimg.com/x720/14653534.jpg "Extra Stage Suggested by Alcolumbre for 6×1 Proposal Is Unprecedented; Government Sees Maneuver to Delay Vote")
