Azteca Stadium Faces Structural Concerns Ahead of World Cup

Azteca Stadium in Mexico City, scheduled to host the opening match of the 2026 FIFA World Cup against South Africa on June 11, is facing structural concerns as reports indicate that the stadium is "sinking." Recent footage from a Liga MX Clausura quarter-final match between Club America and Pumas UNAM showed concrete fragments falling from the stands, particularly in areas recently renovated for the World Cup. Fortunately, no injuries were reported.

The stadium, which has a capacity of 72,766, has undergone extensive upgrades in recent months, including improvements to its façade and access routes. However, the geographical conditions of Mexico City, built on an ancient lake bed, contribute to a subsidence rate of approximately 60 percent, with parts of the city sinking nearly ten inches per year.

NASA is monitoring the area, which has already affected infrastructure, including the Angel of Independence monument.