On Wednesday, June 10, 2026, Mexico City’s president, Claudia Sheinbaum, addressed uncertainty surrounding the FIFA Fan Fest planned for the Zócalo during the 2026 World Cup opening. The event’s fate remains unclear due to the ongoing presence of teachers from the Coordinadora Nacional de Trabajadores de la Educación (CNTE), who have been protesting in the area.

During her morning press conference, Sheinbaum was asked where she would watch the Mexico vs. South Africa match. She responded that if the Fan Fest cannot take place in the Zócalo on the day of the inauguration, the city government has prepared 18 alternative venues across Mexico City.

Sheinbaum explained: “If for some reason it can’t happen on the day of the inauguration in the Zócalo, there are 18 venues that were planned well in advance by the Mexico City Government.” She also mentioned the possibility of setting up a screen at the National Palace so she and reporters could watch the game there.

Later on Wednesday, June 10, the government plans to announce whether the Zócalo will be accessible for the event. Regardless of the decision, the 18 other locations remain ready to host fans.

Last week, Clara Brugada, Mexico City’s head of government, said she intended to watch the opening match at the Zócalo alongside Sheinbaum. Both leaders had donated their tickets to a pull-up contest, highlighting their commitment to public engagement.

This situation underscores the challenges of organizing large-scale public events amid social movements, but the city’s preparation of multiple venues reflects a flexible approach to ensuring fans can still celebrate the World Cup together. The cablebús and teleférico projects, part of Mexico City’s broader efforts to improve urban mobility and access, also contribute to making these events more inclusive and accessible for all residents and visitors.