Cozumel Announces $115 Million Investment for New Poliforum as Maya Basketball League Season Begins

Cozumel, Quintana Roo — Mayor José Luis Chacón Méndez has announced a major $115 million investment to completely rebuild the Poliforum sports complex as the island prepares to host the 2026 season of the Maya Basketball League.

The ambitious project, funded through the Cruise Passenger Trust Fund established by Governor Mara Lezama, will transform the aging facility into a modern, climate-controlled venue with triple the current capacity. Construction is scheduled to begin in April following a bidding process in March, with completion expected between February and April 2027.

Modern Sports Complex

The redesigned Poliforum will feature retractable bleachers that will increase seating capacity from 1,000 to approximately 3,000 spectators. The facility will house three simultaneous courts for basketball and volleyball, along with dedicated spaces for chess, wrestling, and taekwondo schools.

Air conditioning will be installed throughout the complex, addressing a longstanding request from athletes and fans who have endured the island’s tropical heat during events.

Basketball Season Underway

As construction preparations begin, the 2026 Maya Basketball League season kicks off this weekend with Cozumel’s two professional teams ready for action.

Fuerza Isleña will host the Chicleros de Kantunilkín at home, while Roosters de Cozumel will travel to Playa del Carmen to face the Cuervos. Both teams are coming off strong performances last season, with Roosters finishing as runners-up in the league championship.

“Our mission for 2026 is clear: win the championship,” said Mayor Chacón Méndez during the team presentation event. “We’ve reinforced both rosters with international talent and promising young players from our local development programs.”

Until the new Poliforum is complete, games will be held at the Poliforum Francisco I. Cordero, with an alternate venue to be announced for later in the season.