Mexico City mixes festive World Cup build-up with rising protests and security concerns
Mexico City
As Mexico prepares to host the opening ceremonies of the FIFA World Cup, celebrations in the capital have been increasingly overshadowed by rising social tensions, protests and concerns over security across several host cities.
The tournament, jointly hosted by Mexico, the United States and Canada, is set to begin with an inauguration ceremony and opening match on Thursday, marking the start of a month-long global sporting spectacle. However, beneath the festive atmosphere in Mexico City, authorities are grappling with criticism over governance, public spending and safety.
President Claudia Sheinbaum faces mounting political pressure as the country navigates diplomatic strains with the United States ahead of key trade talks in July, along with domestic criticism over alleged neglect of pressing social issues. Analysts say the World Cup has placed her administration under intense scrutiny at a sensitive time.
Authorities have ramped up security across the three host cities — Mexico City, Guadalajara and Monterrey — following violent incidents earlier this year in Guadalajara that temporarily disrupted preparations. More than 100,000 personnel, including soldiers, National Guard members and police officers, have been deployed to maintain order during the tournament.
Despite these measures, protests have continued in Mexico City, where teacher unions and civil groups have staged demonstrations over labour conditions and public spending priorities. Protesters have also highlighted Mexico’s ongoing humanitarian crisis, including the more than 130,000 missing persons reported nationwide.
Critics argue that resources being allocated for World Cup preparations could have been directed toward education, infrastructure and social welfare programmes. Some public spaces have seen the removal of banners and installations linked to the tournament amid tensions between authorities and demonstrators.
However, government officials maintain that the event will provide a major economic boost, with estimates suggesting the tournament could generate around $3 billion for the hospitality and tourism sectors.
Amid the tension, excitement remains visible across the country. Streets in Mexico City are decorated with FIFA branding, national colours and football-themed installations, while fans from across the world have begun arriving in large numbers.
The opening match between Mexico and South Africa is expected to draw global attention, alongside a star-studded inauguration ceremony featuring international performers.
While officials hope the tournament will showcase Mexico’s organisational strength on the world stage, observers note that balancing celebration with social realities remains the biggest challenge in the days ahead.
