Cancún, Quintana Roo — Giant soccer balls have appeared at iconic spots across Cancún as the city ramps up festivities for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
The oversized structures are now on display at Malecón Tajamar and Parque de las Palapas, drawing locals and tourists who have begun posing for photos as part of the countdown to the global sporting event.
The initiative is backed by the government of Quintana Roo and the Benito Juárez municipal council as part of pre-tournament activities.
Benito Juárez Tourism Secretary Juan Pablo de Zulueta said final preparations are underway for events centered at Malecón Tajamar. The goal is to offer a free, family-friendly experience where residents and visitors can watch key matches together.
The festivities kick off on June 11 with the broadcast of the opening match between Mexico and South Africa on a giant screen set up facing Laguna Nichupté. Activities will begin at 1:00 p.m., with the match projection starting an hour later, marking the start of 39 days of World Cup-related activations.
Authorities plan to broadcast at least eight matches, including all three of Mexico’s group-stage games against South Africa, South Korea, and the Czech Republic. They also plan to show knockout-round matches if Mexico advances, as well as the final.
The venue will feature sports activities, contests, recreational areas, and a small soccer field where families and fans can play friendly matches before and after each broadcast. Officials confirmed that no alcohol will be sold inside the designated area to maintain a safe, all-ages environment.
Officials highlighted Cancún’s strategic advantage during the World Cup thanks to its international air connectivity, with direct flights to all 16 host cities. With giant soccer balls, themed spaces, and mass broadcasts, the city is already embracing the soccer spirit and sharing the excitement with residents and visitors alike.
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