The 2026 World Cup will leave an economic impact in Mexico of close to $3 billion dollars, announced this Friday the commissioner of the Mexican Football Federation (FMF), Mikel Arriola. The figure represents an impact 235% greater than what the Formula 1 Grand Prix generates in a single weekend.

According to estimates, the tourism sector will be the tournament's main economic driver. More than 5.5 million visitors are expected to visit Mexican venues, generating revenues exceeding $1 billion dollars.

“The 2026 World Cup will have an unprecedented reach in both sporting and social aspects,” said Arriola.

Tourism, jobs and infrastructure: the triple impact

During a keynote address at the Hospicio Cabanas in Guadalajara, and in the presence of the governors of Jalisco, Pablo Lemus, and Nuevo Leon, Samuel Garcia, as well as representatives of the business sector, the commissioner detailed the economic expectations heading into the tournament.

Arriola indicated that more than 24,000 direct jobs will be created, while investments of nearly $200 million dollars are projected for stadium improvements. The three Mexican cities selected for the World Cup—Mexico City, Guadalajara, and Monterrey—will receive a significant share of this investment.

The urban investment amounts exceed billions of dollars: approximately $1.385 billion for Guadalajara, more than $3.194 billion in Mexico City, and $3.866 billion in Monterrey. The resources will be allocated to transportation infrastructure, airports, stadiums, and urban modernization projects.

Regarding the match schedule, the Mexican capital will host five matches, including a round of 32 match and a round of 16 match. Guadalajara will host four group stage matches, while Monterrey will also host four, including a round of 32 match.