Mexico said it remains interested in hosting the 2026 FIFA World Cup, suggesting it would make a bid to become the first nation to host the event three times.
Mexico Football Federation president Decio de Maria on Friday said that he shared the ambition of his predecessor, Justino Compean, to host the event, adding: “Mexico will hold the hand high and follow up with the FIFA procedures to hold the tournament.”
“It means a big commitment, but most Mexicans will feel very proud to organize a third World Cup,” De Maria said. “As soon as the process begins within FIFA, Mexico will be present.”
Canada and Colombia are other nations that have signaled their intent to bid for the 2026 event. Colombia had been due to host the 1986 tournament, but due to instability in the nation, it was switched at short notice to Mexico, which also hosted the 1970 event.
A bid is also expected from the US, though no formal announcement had been made. The US bid unsuccessfully for the 2022 World Cup, which was awarded to Qatar, shortly before FIFA became caught up in a wide-ranging corruption scandal.
Mexico’s 2026 bid would be bolstered by recent and upcoming investment in new stadiums.
Santos Laguna opened its Estadio Corona in 2009, Guadalajara constructed the Estadio Omnilfe in 2010 and Monterrey built the Estadio BBVA last year. UANL Tigres, last year’s Copa Libertadores runners-up, are to build a new stadium by 2018.
Puebla’s Cuauhtemoc Stadium was remodeled last year with a US$40 million investment, while Mexico City’s Azteca Stadium is being adapted to celebrate its 60th anniversary and to host NFL games in the next few years.
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