Hidalgo Government Warns Municipalities Against Unauthorized World Cup Broadcasts

The government of Hidalgo, Mexico, has issued a stern warning to all 84 municipalities within the state, urging them to refrain from broadcasting or re-broadcasting the 2026 FIFA World Cup matches without securing the necessary broadcasting rights. Authorities emphasized that non-compliance could lead to significant financial penalties.

State officials have alerted the local governments to take preventive measures to avoid potential fines stemming from the unauthorized use of transmission rights for the global sporting event, scheduled to take place from June 11 to July 19. Municipalities are reminded that their responsibilities include preventing actions that could generate legal liabilities, such as the public dissemination of content protected by broadcasting rights without explicit authorization.

In response to these recommendations, some municipalities have already informed their residents about the cancellation of public viewing events. Almoloya, for instance, announced that it would not be able to project matches involving the Mexican national team or any other participating team. While acknowledging the public's enthusiasm for following the World Cup, local authorities are encouraging fans to watch the games from home or at establishments that hold the appropriate permits and licenses for broadcasting.