Since the FIFA World Cup kicked off on June 11, 2026, Mexico has experienced a complex mix of celebration and crisis. While the capital city and other host locations have seen an impressive economic upswing, the country simultaneously faces a troubling rise in disappearances.

On Monday, July 6, the National Chamber of Commerce, Services and Tourism of Mexico City (Canaco CDMX) released preliminary figures highlighting the financial impact of the tournament. They estimate that Mexico City alone generated nearly 22.7 billion pesos (about $1.2 billion USD) in revenue, fueled by over 1.1 million tourists spending an average of 22,500 pesos each. This influx supported approximately 80,000 temporary jobs, with the service sector emerging as the primary beneficiary.

However, this economic success story contrasts sharply with a grim reality reported by search collectives and human rights groups. According to an analysis of data from the National Registry of Disappeared and Unlocated Persons, around 1,200 people vanished across Mexico during the 25 days since the World Cup began. These disappearances span the entire country, including the three Mexican host cities: Mexico City, Monterrey, and Guadalajara.

The day before Mexico’s elimination from the tournament on Sunday, July 5, activists gathered at the Glorieta del Ahuehuete in Mexico City to protest. They accused the government of projecting an image of festivity and progress while the nation grapples with a severe security crisis marked by ongoing disappearances.

This dual narrative underscores the challenges Mexico faces in balancing international events that boost tourism and economic activity with the urgent need to address human rights and public safety. For many, the World Cup has been a moment of pride and opportunity, but it also casts a spotlight on the persistent social issues that demand attention beyond the stadiums.