For most Mexicans, futbol (soccer in the U.S.) is a way of life. Indeed, soccer is the veritable king of sports south of the border, where passionate fans flock to support their favorite leagues, whether playing in a qualifying match or a friendly. Either way, expect lots of heated cheering, jeering and rapid-fire commentary if you’re lucky enough to be in the stands.
You don’t have to be a die-hard sports fan to appreciate the athletic prowess (and crazed fervor) on display during a soccer match, and there are plenty of impressive stadiums to catch the action. For the uninitiated, the Mexican football league system has four divisions and dozens of clubs, including the ever-popular Club America, Chivas, Cruz Azul and Pachuco.
Here’s a shortlist of some of the best (and biggest) places to see a soccer game in Mexico:
Estadio Azteca
Located in Mexico City. This legendary stadium is home to Club America and the Mexican national team is the first stadium in history to host two FIFA finals. With a seating capacity of more than 100,000, Estadio Azteca is one of the world’s 18 largest stadiums.
Estadio Olimpico Universitario
Famously hosted the 1968 Summer Olympics in addition to several FIFA World Cup games. Olimpico Universitario is the place to watch Pumas de la UNAM and is located about 8 miles from the historic center of Mexico City.
Estadio Jalisco
Seats 54,963 spectators making this the country’s third largest stadium. It is the home stadium for fan favorites Liga MX, Club Atlas, and Ascenso MX.
Estadio Chivas
Seats nearly 50,000 and is Mexico’s fourth largest stadium. Located in Zapopan, Jalisco, this massive venue is mostly used for home matches for Club Chivas, which boasts dozens of top players and 12 championships.
If you are interested in taking in some local sporting culture during your holidays, here are some helpful tips to know:
- Tickets sell out fast for big games, plan ahead!
- Leave extra time to arrive to account for traffic delays
- Belts, water bottles, lighters and aerosols are not permitted inside
- Keep some pesos handy for purchasing snacks and beverages
- Be prepared for some strong language
- Even if you’re not a soccer fan, enjoy the atmosphere and people!
Additional Mexican Futbol Resources:
- TheTopTen, Top Ten Best Mexican Soccer Teams, https://www.thetoptens.com/best-mexican-soccer-teams/
- The Stadium Guide, Mexico City Football Guide http://www.stadiumguide.com/city-guides/mexico-city-football-guide/
- Northern Lauren, A NON-FOOTBALL FAN’S GUIDE TO WATCHING SOCCER IN MEXICO http://northernlauren.com/guide-to-watching-soccer-mexico/
