Estadio Azteca Turns 60: A Symbol of Power That Hosted Pelé and Maradona, Set to Open Third World Cup

The iconic Estadio Azteca in Mexico City is marking its 60th anniversary, cementing its status as a legendary venue in global football history. Opened on May 29, 1966, with a friendly match between Club América and Italy's Torino, the stadium, then known as the Coloso de Santa Úrsula, was conceived by media magnate Emilio Azcárraga Milmo with the ambition of creating a monumental sports arena.

Its enduring legacy is highlighted by its unique achievement: the Azteca is the only stadium worldwide to have hosted the opening match of three FIFA World Cups (1970, 1986, and soon, 2026). This distinction places it in a class of its own, having witnessed the crowning moments of footballing giants like Pelé and Maradona, who both lifted the World Cup trophy on its hallowed turf.

Originally designed to hold over 100,000 spectators, the stadium has undergone four renovations, its capacity fluctuating over the decades. Its name, "Azteca," was chosen through a public contest in 1966, with Antonio Vázquez Torres being the first to propose the winning name. He was awarded two premium seats for 99 years as a prize, a testament to the stadium's deep connection with its public from its inception.

While officially known as Estadio Banorte, FIFA will revert to its original name, Azteca Ciudad de México, for the upcoming World Cup. The stadium's history is interwoven with tales of glory, controversy, and immense passion for the sport, making it not just a venue, but a symbol of Mexican identity and a shrine for football aficionados worldwide.

“

Azteca