Puerto Vallarta, Mexico – With the countdown to the 2026 World Cup already underway, host nations Mexico, the United States, and Canada are busy preparing to welcome a massive influx of tourists eager for a month-long celebration of soccer. However, not all infrastructure projects are running on schedule, leaving some key venues in a state of temporary limbo.
One significant project affected by the timeline is the remodeling of Mexico City International Airport (AICM). The extensive upgrade began on April 1, 2025, but work on the project will be paused until May 31, as officials decide to wait until after the World Cup fever subsides to resume renovations. According to the Navy, which is managing operations through the AICM, several contracts have been put on hold. These include the “Comprehensive project for the remodeling of Terminal 1” and “Terminal 2,” as well as the “Supervision of the Comprehensive project for the remodeling of Terminals 1 and 2.” The planned work includes renovating facades, updating both interior and exterior lighting, repairing walls, replacing floors, maintaining roof waterproofing, and addressing issues in plumbing, electrical installations, and automatic door mechanisms.
Despite these delays, Mexico City is leaving no stone unturned in its preparations for the event. In addition to airport upgrades, several major projects are on track to be completed before the tournament kicks off. These include the modernization of the city’s light rail, the expansion of a bike path extending from the Historic Center to the iconic Azteca Stadium, and critical modifications to Calzada de Tlalpan. Perhaps most eagerly anticipated is the long-awaited modernization of the Azteca Stadium itself, set to provide an enhanced experience for soccer fans from around the world.
Officials maintain that while some elements of the infrastructure might remain unfinished at the time of the tournament, the primary focus is on ensuring that visitors can enjoy a world-class sporting event. “We are working diligently to ensure that key areas are fully operational and that the overall visitor experience is exceptional, even if a few projects will continue after the World Cup,” an AICM spokesperson stated.
As the world watches the final preparations in Mexico, the spirit of the World Cup continues to drive both progress and public enthusiasm. With a blend of ongoing renovations and strategically planned completions, Mexico City is determined to provide a warm and memorable welcome to soccer fans and tourists alike during one of the most celebrated sporting events on the planet.
Puerto Vallarta, Mexico - With the countdown to the 2026 World Cup already underway, host nations Mexico, the United States, and Canada are busy preparing to welcome a massive influx of tourists eager for a month-long celebration of soccer. However, not all infrastructure projects are running on schedule, leaving some key venues in a state of temporary limbo.
