Guadalajara, Jalisco, Mexico – As excitement builds around the 2026 FIFA World Cup™, Governor Pablo Lemus Navarro has announced a statewide school holiday on Thursday, June 18, allowing students, teachers, and families across Jalisco to enjoy a historic moment for Mexican soccer.
The measure applies exclusively to the education sector. Government offices and public administration services throughout the state will continue operating normally.
Governor Lemus emphasized that the decision was made so that families can fully participate in the celebration as Mexico’s National Football Team takes the field against South Korea in Guadalajara. The match marks the first time the Mexican national team will play a FIFA World Cup match in the city, making it a significant occasion for Jalisco and the country.
“I want to make it very clear that the entire government sector will work with complete normality next Thursday; therefore, the families of Jalisco, our girls, boys, teachers and professors will be able to enjoy this great World Cup celebration,” the governor said.
The highly anticipated Group A matchup will take place at Guadalajara Stadium (a.k.a. Estadio Akron) in Zapopan at 7:00 pm local time. Both Mexico and South Korea enter the contest with victories in their opening matches, making the game a key battle for first place in the group.
Mexico thrilled fans with a decisive 2-0 win over South Africa at the Azteca Stadium in Mexico City, while South Korea proved its prowess by defeating Czechia 2-1 in Guadalajara. Because both squads are undefeated, the June 18 showdown is widely viewed as the deciding factor for who will claim the coveted top spot in Group A.
The World Cup has already generated enthusiasm throughout Jalisco, one of Mexico’s three host regions for the tournament. Along with Guadalajara, matches are being played in Mexico City and Monterrey, with Mexico hosting a total of 13 games during the competition.
While Mexico previously hosted FIFA World Cups in 1970 and 1986, the national team played all of its matches at Azteca Stadium in Mexico City during those tournaments. The upcoming match in Guadalajara therefore represents a milestone, giving local fans the opportunity to cheer on El Tri in a World Cup match on home turf for the first time.
As the countdown to kickoff continues, schools across Jalisco will pause for the day, allowing students and educators to join the millions of fans who will be celebrating this landmark event in Mexican sports history.
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