Estadio Azteca, arguably the most storied soccer venue on the planet, has finished a nearly $300 million renovation just in time to host the opening match of the 2026 FIFA World Cup on June 11. The match between Mexico and South Africa will make Azteca the first stadium in history to host three World Cup openers.
But the real story for crypto watchers isn’t the new hybrid pitch or the expanded seating. It’s what’s happening in FIFA’s sponsor suite: Kraken was named the Official Crypto Exchange Supporter of the 2026 World Cup on June 9, just two days before the tournament kicks off.
A stadium reborn, and the numbers behind it
The renovation work at Azteca began in May 2024 and wrapped in early 2026. Capacity jumped from around 83,000 to approximately 87,500 to 90,000 spectators. New LED video boards, upgraded lighting and sound systems, fresh locker rooms, and modernized seating were all part of the overhaul.
The stadium will officially carry the sponsorship name Estadio Banorte for the tournament, a nod to the Mexican banking giant that secured naming rights as part of the broader commercial buildout around the event.
