Sheinbaum Casts Doubt on Zocalo Fan Fest for World Cup Opener

Mexico City — President Claudia Sheinbaum cast doubt Wednesday on whether the FIFA Fan Fest in the capital’s Zocalo plaza would open Thursday for the 2026 World Cup opener, saying fans could watch the match for free at 18 other venues across the city.

Speaking at her morning press conference at the National Palace, Sheinbaum said a final decision on the Zocalo would be announced later in the day. If the plaza cannot be used, she urged fans without tickets or pay-TV subscriptions to head to the alternative sites set up by the city government.

“If for some reason it’s not possible (to open the Fan Fest) for the opening day in the Zocalo, there are 18 venues in Mexico City that were planned well in advance by the head of government,” Sheinbaum said. “So, let’s see if you can list the 18 venues where the match can be watched for free.”

She added: “There are 18 venues where people can go without any problem. I already made the decision at the time whether to watch it here or go to one of the 18 venues, but I think we’ll announce the Zocalo situation this afternoon. But if for some reason the Zocalo can’t be used for the opener, there are 18 venues where it can be watched for free.”

With one day to go before the World Cup kicks off, workers from companies contracted by the Fan Fest organizers — including Vertice, Thank Production, Naib Group, and Taller de Arte Xibalba — were still finishing setup on the Zocalo esplanade. The plaza remained surrounded by metal barriers and security personnel to block access by the CNTE teachers’ union, which has been protesting in the area.

Workers were painting, erecting structures, installing decorative figures, and building bases for various event components, while materials and tools were scattered across the square.

Sheinbaum also said she was considering watching the opening match from the National Palace, where a television would be set up for government employees.

“We’ll see how — obviously I have to stay on top of everything, and there’s a team in charge, but I have to be aware,” she said. “So either I watch it at one of the 18 venues or right here — we’re going to set up a TV, which we already had planned, so that everyone who works here in the government, those who come to work that day, can watch it.”