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Monterrey

Monterrey Prepares to Shine as 2026 World Cup Hub

Monterrey, one of Mexico’s most dynamic cities, is positioning itself as a key hub for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, offering a unique mix of world-class infrastructure, cultural vibrancy, and unparalleled connectivity. Along with Mexico City and Guadalajara, Monterrey stands as one of the three cities in Mexico hosting the event. Its prime geographical location in the north of the country makes it a gateway to major international cities, with direct flights to destinations like Los Angeles, Miami, New York, Vancouver, and Mexico City, enhancing its appeal as a central hub for World Cup visitors.

“We are planning for Monterrey to be the hub for Latin America and even Europe during the World Cup,” said Jorge A. Vasaro Acuilan, Competitiveness and Innovation Director of the Secretaría de Turismo de Nuevo León, during his speech at TIS 2024 (Tourism Innovation Summit) today. He stressed Monterrey’s advantageous connectivity and infrastructure as key assets in attracting international visitors. “We invite fans to experience the World Cup with a Mexican flair here in Monterrey, which will offer a vibrant, festive atmosphere unlike anywhere else,” he added.

A Mexican-Style World Cup Celebration

Monterrey promises a lively experience that reflects the heart and soul of Mexican culture. Fans will enjoy not just the games but an extended 40-day festival, with Central Park-style spaces set up in the city to host public viewings, concerts, and culinary events. This festival will reflect the celebratory spirit of Mexico, contrasting with stricter regulations found in cities like Miami, Houston, or Dallas.

“There’s something special about watching the World Cup in Mexico,” said Vasaro. “Here, the streets will be alive with music, food, and festivities—something fans might miss in North American or Canadian cities where regulations can be more limiting. Monterrey will offer a continuous celebration.”

Preparing for a Record-Breaking World Cup

The 2026 World Cup will be historic, with 48 nations competing for the first time, making it the largest and longest tournament ever. Monterrey is preparing to host thousands of international visitors, with plans to expand its current hotel capacity from 17,000 rooms to 25,000. The city is also collaborating with Airbnb and other hospitality services to meet the massive demand for accommodations. Beyond its central role in hosting matches, Monterrey aims to spread tourism benefits to surrounding areas, offering visitors a variety of experiences beyond the soccer fields.

“We expect to welcome nearly half of our annual visitor count in just 40 days,” said Vasaro. “That’s why we’re not only focused on accommodations but also on transportation and tourism infrastructure to ensure a seamless experience for everyone.”

Final Draw for 2026: Monterrey in the Running

Monterrey, alongside Vancouver, is one of the two cities vying to host the highly anticipated final draw for the tournament in December 2025. This event will bring together representatives from all 48 competing nations, who will spend a week in the city to determine their respective groups. This would be a significant opportunity for Monterrey to showcase itself on the world stage and boost city marketing efforts.

“It’s a great chance for Monterrey to show off its culture, hospitality, and infrastructure,” Vasaro explained. “Depending on which countries we host, we will tailor our preparations to meet cultural needs—whether it’s offering the right cuisine, facilitating language needs, or adjusting to specific customs.”

A Sustainable and Cultural Approach

Monterrey’s preparations for the World Cup go beyond logistics. The city is also deeply committed to sustainability, both environmentally and culturally. Monterrey plans to showcase the richness of Mexican gastronomy, with Michelin-starred restaurants and a wide variety of international dining options catering to every taste.

“We take our culinary arts seriously, and we know that Mexican food is famous worldwide. Monterrey offers an incredible array of dining options beyond just spicy dishes—our food is a cultural experience in itself,” emphasized Vasaro.

As the countdown to 2026 continues, Monterrey is ready to take its place as a World Cup host city, offering fans an unforgettable blend of soccer, culture, and celebration.

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