Panini Sticker Fever Grips Mexico City's FIFA Fan Fest Despite Team's World Cup Exit

Even though Mexico is no longer competing in the 2026 World Cup, the passion for collecting Panini stickers remains at a fever pitch. The FIFA Fan Fest in Mexico City's Zócalo has become a vibrant hub for fans dedicated to completing their albums.

Upon arrival, fans are greeted with a special welcome kit from Panini. This package typically includes a softcover album, two sticker packs, a commemorative medal, and a t-shirt, setting the stage for their collecting mission. Inside the Fan Fest, the atmosphere buzzes with activity as enthusiasts gather on the ground or mingle, eagerly seeking others to trade their duplicate stickers.

The event is not just about individual completion; it's a communal effort. Fans have organized themselves into specific zones, often divided by sticker groups (A, B, C, etc.), to facilitate easier exchanges. Age is no barrier, with both adults and children sharing the excitement of finding missing stickers and completing their collections.

Families often participate together, dividing the task of finding trading partners. The spirit of exchange is strong, embodying Panini's motto, "every exchange counts." Those who manage to complete their entire album are celebrated at a special stand, marking the accomplishment of a challenging endeavor. The Zócalo is also hosting an attempt to break the Guinness World Record for the largest sticker exchange.