Guadalajara, Jalisco, México – As the world counts down to the 2026 FIFA World Cup, much of the tournament’s magic lies beyond the stadium walls. For many fans, the most lasting memories come from discovering places where soccer is woven naturally into local culture and shared celebration. Mexico’s state of Jalisco is preparing to offer exactly that kind of experience.
Known as the birthplace of tequila, mariachi, and charrería, Jalisco is stepping confidently onto the global stage, ready to welcome the world through fútbol, tradition, and hospitality. State officials say the goal is simple: create a World Cup experience that feels deeply Mexican and genuinely welcoming.
The capital city of Guadalajara will host four group-stage matches at Estadio Guadalajara, including one of the tournament’s opening-day fixtures. A major highlight comes on June 18, when Mexico’s national team faces South Korea in a headline match expected to draw global attention. Additional matches will take place on June 11, June 23, and June 26.
This marks Jalisco’s third time hosting a FIFA World Cup, following the iconic tournaments of 1970 and 1986. With decades of experience behind it, the state says it is fully prepared to welcome fans in what it describes as one of the most culturally rich and visitor-ready host destinations of the tournament.
Governor Pablo Lemus Navarro has emphasized Jalisco’s ambition to be “the most Mexican host city” of the World Cup, blending football with culture, organization, and warm hospitality. Throughout the tournament’s 39 days, Guadalajara will host an extended Fan Fest designed as a shared celebration for both residents and international visitors.
The FIFA Fan Festival will take place in the Historic Center of Guadalajara at Plaza de la Liberación and is expected to attract nearly three million people. Fans can look forward to live match screenings, concerts, cultural performances, interactive activities, and a wide range of food and drink. The setting includes some of the Capital City’s most iconic landmarks, from the Metropolitan Cathedral to the Degollado Theater, creating a beautiful backdrop that reflects the heart of Jalisco’s traditions.
Supporting this celebration is a strong tourism and hospitality network. Jalisco offers 2,736 accommodation establishments, more than 82,000 hotel rooms, and over 46,000 food and beverage venues, including approximately 25,000 restaurants in key tourism zones. Air connectivity plays a central role in the state’s readiness, with Guadalajara International Airport operating 61 direct routes and 27 additional routes scheduled specifically for the World Cup.
Tourism leaders stress that the World Cup experience will extend well beyond Guadalajara. Michelle Fridman Hirsch, Secretary of Tourism for the Government of Jalisco, said the state is working to position itself as an authentic and competitive destination for world-class events. Visitors will be encouraged to explore Jalisco’s 12 Magical Towns, more than 350 kilometers of coastline, and beach destinations such as Puerto Vallarta, located about two and a half hours from the capital.
As the global tournament continues to spark debate about commercial influence, Jalisco is offering a different vision – one centered on shared joy, local identity, and a genuine love for the game. For fans seeking a World Cup experience shaped by culture and connection, Jalisco may well become one of the tournament’s most memorable hosts.
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