FIFA Selects Guadalajara and Monterrey to Host Crucial 2026 World Cup Finals Action

Image: Jorge Taboada

Mexico is set to host one of the most important events leading into the 2026 FIFA World Cup. FIFA has officially chosen Guadalajara and Monterrey as the host cities for the World Cup qualifying playoff tournament, scheduled for March 23–31, 2026. The competition will determine two of the final spots for the expanded 48-team World Cup, making it one of the last major milestones before the tournament kicks off.

Six Teams From Five Confederations Will Compete in Mexico

Both Estadio Akron (Guadalajara) and Estadio BBVA (Monterrey) will welcome six national teams representing different regions of the world. These teams will battle for the remaining two World Cup berths:

• AFC: Iraq

• CAF: Democratic Republic of the Congo

• Concacaf: Jamaica & Suriname

• Conmebol: Bolivia

• OFC: New Caledonia

The official draw will take place this Thursday at FIFA headquarters in Zurich.

FIFA President Gianni Infantino praised the selection of these Mexican cities, noting that the atmosphere, passion, and quality of both stadiums create the perfect stage for high-stakes matches just months before the World Cup begins.

Stadiums Built for High Pressure and Big Moments

Estadio Akron, opened in 2010, is widely recognized as one of Mexico’s most modern football venues. Known for its vibrant fanbase and strong international event history, it is ideal for emotionally charged, decisive games.

Monterrey’s Estadio BBVA, nicknamed the “Gigante de Acero,” brings world-class capacity, architecture, and experience hosting major competitions. Both stadiums are already set to host games during the 2026 World Cup.

Mexico Will Host Key Matches Before the World Cup

As World Cup host cities, Guadalajara will stage four group-stage matches, while Monterrey will host three group games and one Round of 32 match. The playoff tournament serves as a high-level test event for both venues.

The qualifying draw will be held on Thursday, November 20 at 13:00 CET, broadcast live on FIFA.com, FIFA+, and official rights-holding broadcasters. The full match schedule will be released shortly afterward.

Fans will be able to purchase tickets through FIFA.com/es/tickets, with full details expected early next year.

A Key Step Toward a Historic 2026 World Cup

The playoff tournament represents one of the final major steps toward the World Cup. With the final draw scheduled for December 5 in Washington, D.C., and the FIFA Congress set for April in Vancouver, the global build-up is reaching its peak.

Mexico will then take center stage when the 2026 World Cup kicks off on June 11, with the inaugural match set for Estadio Banorte.