Mexico secures $2.26 billion in revenues from World Cup 2026 hosting

Mexico fans support the team during the 2026 World Cup.

GUADALAJARA, July 27:  Mexico generated 42.276 billion Mexican pesos ($2.26 billion) in revenues from hosting matches during the 2026 FIFA World Cup, which it staged alongside the United States and Canada, according to figures covering the period from June 8 to July 19.

The amount marked a 44% increase compared with the same period last year, with Forbes reporting, citing Mexico’s Ministry of Tourism, that the tournament brought 7.8 million visitors from inside and outside the country to the host cities.

The ministry estimated the total economic impact of the World Cup, including tourism income and related business activity, at 65 billion pesos ($3.48 billion).

The tournament also contributed to employment growth, creating 130,900 direct jobs across the host cities. During the five-week competition, hotels recorded an average occupancy rate of 66%, climbing to 90% on match days.

The aviation sector also saw significant growth, with airports in the host cities handling 6.4 million passengers. Passenger traffic increased by 18% at Felipe Ángeles International Airport (AIFA) and by 11.5% at Guadalajara International Airport.

Restaurants benefited from the surge in visitors as sales increased by up to 80%, while hotel prices rose by an average of 51.5%.

Meanwhile, FIFA Fan Fest events attracted more than 6.7 million attendees in Mexico City, Greater Monterrey and Guadalajara.

Mexico City emerged as the biggest beneficiary among the host cities, welcoming 4.4 million visitors and generating an economic impact of more than 25.8 billion pesos ($1.38 billion).