Mexico's Sheinbaum eyes 2026 World Cup to boost youth soccer

With the 2026 FIFA World Cup just a week away from its inauguration, Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum Pardo announced plans to utilize the global event to boost sports activities across the country. Her administration intends to harness the social initiatives surrounding the tournament to encourage soccer participation among children and youth.

Sheinbaum stated that the goal is to cultivate a new generation of players who can become the future talent for professional soccer clubs and Mexico's national teams, both men's and women's. The president emphasized that the World Cup should be more than just a series of matches; it should serve as a catalyst for lasting sports development.

Speaking at a morning press conference, Sheinbaum highlighted the numerous activities already organized in connection with the World Cup. She expressed a strong interest in ensuring these initiatives continue beyond the tournament, strengthening the sports landscape from remote areas to major cities.

Government officials are expected to provide further details on the progress of what is being termed the "Social World Cup." The overarching aim is to embed a culture of sports and physical activity, ensuring that the enthusiasm generated by the World Cup translates into sustained engagement, particularly in soccer, for young Mexicans.