Azteca Stadium - Sports Tourist

Estadio Azteca, located in the Santa Úrsula neighborhood of Mexico City, is more than just a sports stadium; it is a legendary “Temple of Football.” As the official home of Club América, Cruz Azul, and the Mexico National Team, it stands as one of the most iconic sporting venues in the world. Known as the “Coloso de Santa Úrsula,” it is historically significant as the first stadium to host two FIFA World Cup Finals (1970 and 1986). Its high altitude and intimidating atmosphere make it one of the most difficult places for visiting teams to play in international football.

🏗️ History and Design

Opened in 1966, Estadio Azteca was designed to be a monumental centerpiece for Mexican sports, capable of holding over 100,000 spectators at its peak.

Architectural Vision: Designed by architects Pedro Ramírez Vázquez and Rafael Mijares Alcérreca, the stadium features a distinctive concrete “ring” design that provides excellent sightlines despite its massive scale.
Legendary Moments: The pitch has witnessed some of the most famous moments in football history, including Pelé’s 1970 World Cup victory and Diego Maradona’s “Hand of God” and “Goal of the Century” in 1986.
Modern Renovations: While its capacity has been reduced to approximately 83,000 to improve comfort and add luxury boxes, the stadium is currently undergoing extensive renovations to modernize its facilities ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Altitude Advantage: Situated at 7,200 feet (2,195 meters) above sea level, the thin air adds a unique physical challenge for athletes, contributing to the stadium’s fearsome reputation.

🏆 Major Events Hosted

Estadio Azteca’s resume is unparalleled in the world of sports, having hosted the pinnacle of football competition multiple times.

FIFA World Cup Finals: The only stadium to witness the crowning of two of the greatest players in history, Pelé (1970) and Maradona (1986).
2026 FIFA World Cup: Estadio Azteca will make history again as the first stadium to host matches in three different FIFA World Cups, including the opening match of the 2026 tournament.
NFL International Series: The stadium has hosted several regular-season NFL games, including the first-ever regular-season game played outside the United States in 2005.
The “Game of the Century”: The 1970 World Cup semifinal between Italy and West Germany, widely considered the greatest match ever played, took place here.
Major Concerts: It has hosted massive musical events, including Michael Jackson’s “Dangerous World Tour” (which set a record with five sold-out shows) and historic performances by U2, Paul McCartney, and Bad Bunny.

📍 Key Information

Official Name: Estadio Azteca
Location: Mexico City, Mexico
Opened: May 29, 1966
Capacity: 83,264 (Current configuration)
Primary Tenants: Club América, Cruz Azul, Mexico National Team
Address: Calz. de Tlalpan 3465, Santa Úrsula Coapa, Coyoacán, 04650 Ciudad de México, CDMX, Mexico

Contents

🚆 Getting to Estadio Azteca

The stadium is located in the southern part of Mexico City and is accessible via the city’s extensive, albeit often crowded, transit system.

By Air: The nearest airport is Mexico City International Airport (MEX). A taxi or authorized airport transport is the most direct way to reach the southern districts, usually taking 45–60 minutes depending on the city’s notorious traffic.
By Public Transport (Tren Ligero): The most reliable way to avoid traffic is the Tren Ligero (Light Rail). Take Metro Line 2 (Blue Line) to the Tasqueña terminus and transfer to the Light Rail heading toward Xochimilco. Alight at the Estadio Azteca station, which is directly across from the stadium.
By Taxi/Rideshare: Uber and Didi are widely used in Mexico City and are generally safer and more convenient than street taxis. On match days, allow significant extra time for traffic.
By Foot: The stadium is located in a dense residential/commercial area. While walkable from the Light Rail, it is not within walking distance of the main tourist hotel zones like Reforma or Polanco.
Parking: On-site parking is available but extremely limited and difficult to navigate on game days. Public transit or rideshare is strongly recommended.

🎟️ Tickets & Tours at Estadio Azteca

Tickets

Club América: Tickets are generally available through Ticketmaster Mexico. For major matches like the Clásico Nacional against Chivas, tickets often sell out during the pre-sale period for club members (Abonados).
Cruz Azul: Tickets can be purchased via Ticketmaster Mexico or at the stadium’s box office (taquillas). Availability is usually higher than América matches, except during the Liguilla (playoffs) or the Clásico Joven.
Mexico National Team: Tickets for El Tri are managed through official federation partners and Ticketmaster. These matches are high-demand events that often require advanced planning.

Tours

Stadium Tours: Guided tours are available and highly recommended for football fans. They include access to the dressing rooms, the tunnel, the marathon gate, and the plaques commemorating the “Goal of the Century.” Check the official Estadio Azteca website for current tour hours, as they are suspended on match days and during major renovations.

🏨 Where to Stay Near Estadio Azteca

Most visitors prefer staying in the central or southern tourist districts and commuting to the stadium.

Coyoacán: This historic and beautiful neighborhood is the closest major tourist area to the stadium. It offers a charming atmosphere with great food and the Frida Kahlo Museum.
- Example: Agata Hotel Boutique & Spa offers a high-end experience in the heart of Coyoacán.
San Ángel / Perisur: Located in the southwest, these areas offer modern shopping and upscale hotels with relatively easier car access to the stadium.
- Example: Camino Real Pedregal Mexico is a popular choice for business and sports travelers.
Reforma / Centro Histórico: The main tourist hubs. While further away (60-90 mins on match days), they offer the best selection of luxury hotels and sightseeing.

💡 Booking Tips

Renovation Status: Note that the stadium is undergoing significant upgrades for 2026. Always check if specific areas (like tours or certain stands) are closed before booking.
Match Day Traffic: Traffic in Mexico City is among the heaviest in the world. If a match starts at 9:00 PM, aim to leave your hotel by 6:00 PM.
Fan ID: Mexico now requires a “Fan ID” for Liga MX matches. Ensure you register online before heading to the stadium.