STORY: :: Multiple protests break out in Mexico City as the World Cup begins

:: June 11, 2026

Social organizations, collectives of families of the disappeared, dissident teachers, peasant organizations, and transport workers all took part in the demonstrations. Some protesters set fire to banners and tore down barriers near a subway station, while police officers moved in to guard the protest area.

At least six protests were planned on Thursday, with the city a contradiction of celebration and opposition. Freshly painted murals, new trains and a revamped stadium aimed at welcoming tourists for the games contrasted with steel barricades mounted by businesses to protect themselves from rioters along the capital's main avenue.

The Mexican government confirmed that 19 social movements had planned protests during the week of the World Cup inauguration, near the stadium and the Zocalo.

Mexico is co-hosting the 2026 FIFA World Cup alongside the United States and Canada.