Javier Aguirre has coached Mexico at two World Cups, played in another, and somehow keeps coming back for more. Now he’s staring down what might be the biggest assignment of his career: leading the host nation into the opening match of the 2026 FIFA World Cup at Estadio Azteca on June 11.
A stadium with unmatched history
Estadio Azteca is not just a venue. It’s a monument to football itself, with a capacity exceeding 80,000 and a resume that no other stadium on the planet can match.
The 2026 opener will mark the third time Azteca has hosted a World Cup opening match. It previously held that honor in 1970 and 1986, both years when Mexico served as host nation.
For Aguirre, the connection to that history is personal. He was on the pitch as a midfielder for Mexico during the 1986 World Cup, playing in the very same stadium where he’ll now pace the sideline as manager.
