Special features of the World Cup opening stadium that you didn't know about

The 2026 World Cup will begin at the Estadio Azteca, where Mexico meet South Africa in the tournament opener.

The Mexico City ground is one of football’s most recognisable venues and will host a World Cup for the third time. Its altitude, tight stands and the noise from the home crowd have long made it a difficult place for visiting teams.

The Azteca has seen major World Cup moments and remains tied to some of the sport’s most familiar images. It has been renovated several times over the years, but its identity has stayed intact.

The opening match carries extra weight because a strong start at a venue of this size and intensity can shape the early rhythm of a tournament. Teams often have to deal with added pressure on the night before the competition has really settled.