Minutes before the start of the 2026 World Cup in Mexico, the festive atmosphere of fans near the Estadio Ciudad de México coexists with pro-Palestinian group protests that disrupt traffic and aim to boycott the start of the world's most important sporting event.
While thousands of fans continue to arrive at the stadium to witness the opening match, Avenida del Imán is crossed by two opposing realities.
In this context, groups of pro-Palestinian leftist protesters decided to carry out protests directly at several key access points to the stadium, creating difficulties for entry,
"Between celebration and protest around the Estadio Ciudad de México. As fans continue to arrive at the stadium, a pro-Palestinian group has blocked traffic at the intersection of Avenida del Imán and Gran Sur, where they placed a banner and a Palestinian flag as part of their protest", local Mexican media report.
The traffic blockage creates complications in a high-traffic area, especially on a day when logistics and mobility are crucial to ensure the orderly entry of spectators.
The Mexico City Stadium
Additionally, there is a visible presence of protesters in areas close to the stadium, with faces covered and a hostile attitude. "Presence of pro-Palestinian protesters on Av. del Imán and Circuito Azteca, near the Estadio Ciudad de México. Some participants have their faces covered", another local media outlet noted.
The 2026 World Cup, which kicks off today, will be held in three countries, Mexico, the United States, and Canada, with an expanded format of 48 teams. In this context, the opening match on Mexican soil draws international attention and marks the beginning of a tournament that will last several weeks.
Despite the festive display and anticipation for the start of the tournament, the blockades and leftist demonstrations around the stadium create uncertainty about the start of the World Cup and whether the event can be carried out properly.
