The 2026 FIFA World Cup is quickly drawing closer, with just over 100 days remaining until the tournament takes centre stage over the summer months.
The competition is set to be the biggest World Cup in history, with a massive 48 nations set to compete in a tournament that spans over three countries, as the United States, Mexico and Canada are all set to host games.
Ahead of the World Cup kicking off in the opening match between Mexico and South Africa at the Estadio Azteca on June 11, 2026, the legendary stadium is undergoing a major redevelopment to celebrate its 60th anniversary, as well as Mexico becoming the first nation to host three World Cup tournaments.
Cristiano Ronaldo to headline Estadio Azteca reopening
The Estadio Azteca is still currently undergoing a significant facelift ahead of the tournament, and the new-look stadium will be opened for the first time in a blockbuster friendly between Mexico and Portugal on March 28.
Cristiano Ronaldo, the all-time top scorer in men's international football with a simply sensational 143 goals, is set to headline the event, marking the first time the Portugal captain has ever competed on Mexican soil.
Alongside Ronaldo, the likes of Bruno Fernandes, Vitinha, Nuno Mendes and Bernardo Silva have been called up by manager Roberto Martinez, who is looking to bring a full strength squad in preparation for the upcoming summer tournament.
Ronaldo, and the rest of the Portugal side, will be joining some of football's royalty when they play at the Estadio Azteca, which has hosted matches at both the 1970 and 1986 World Cup – including iconic moments such as Pele lifting his third World Cup title and Diego Maradona's “Hand of God” goal against England.
FGG says: Estadio Azteca reopening signals start of World Cup celebrations
The World Cup may still be months away when Ronaldo and co. set foot on the Estadio Azteca playing surface, but the reopening of Mexico's iconic football stadium marks the beginning of the celebrations ahead of the tournament.
The most historic ground in the country, and one of the most legendary in world football, will be opening for the first time before the World Cup, which will only see the hype and anticipation for the tournament grow even further.
Ronaldo competing on Mexican soil and joining the likes of Pele and Maradona as football royalty to have graced the Estadio Azteca will only further intensify the excitement, especially with upwards of 80,000 fans expected to be present in the stadium on the day.