Mexico City chases world record for largest Mexican wave ahead of World Cup

Mexico City's iconic Paseo de la Reforma boulevard buzzed with energy as thousands of participants attempted to set a new Guinness World Record for the largest Mexican wave outside of a stadium. The vibrant event, held on Saturday, marks the 40th anniversary of the wave's popularization during the 1986 World Cup, which was hosted in Mexico.

Participants, many donning the national team's green jersey, waved flags and chanted enthusiastically as they executed the rolling motion. The atmosphere was electric, with locals and tourists alike joining in the spectacle. This attempt aimed to create an unprecedented event, celebrating a cultural phenomenon deeply rooted in the country's sporting history.

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It's not about breaking a record, it's about setting one, this is something unprecedented.

Guinness World Records currently recognizes several categories for the Mexican wave, with the largest recorded involving 157,574 people in the United States in 2008. Other records include the longest wave line in Portugal and the longest timed wave in Japan.

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We came to participate in the biggest wave in the world and to support our national team. We are Mexican and we are very proud of our country.

A spokesperson for the Mexico City government emphasized the event's significance, stating, "It's not about breaking a record, it's about setting one, this is something unprecedented." The city is also gearing up to host the 2026 World Cup for a third time, a historic milestone as the first nation to co-host the men's tournament on multiple occasions.

Attendees expressed their pride and excitement. Teresa Lopez shared, "We came to participate in the biggest wave in the world and to support our national team. We are Mexican and we are very proud of our country." International visitors also felt the infectious spirit. Tourist Vivia Shivers remarked, "It's a special location, it's a contribution to a World Cup, and participating feels wonderful."

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It's a special location, it's a contribution to a World Cup, and participating feels wonderful.