The Estadio Banorte was remodeled for the 2026 World Cup, and not only in terms of its exterior, name, and sponsorship, but also in other aspects, such as hospitality areas, the pitch, and connectivity; in other words, the experience at the venue has been renewed. This Saturday, the old 'Azteca' is being re-inaugurated with the Mexico vs. Portugal match, so thousands of fans will be the first witnesses to the new era of the 'Colossus of Santa Úrsula,' which will host the opening match of the 2026 World Cup in North America. What was done to the 'Azteca'? During the 2026 World Cup, hospitality services will be operated by the company On Location, which has experience in events such as WWE and the NFL. The venue also features changes in other areas, such as the name—now 'Estadio Banorte' due to its sponsor—and the ticketing system, which will be managed by the Fanki platform. These are the improvements that the Estadio Banorte has. According to ESPN, the remodeling of the Estadio Banorte involved an investment of 300 million dollars. Previously, players exited through tunnels located in a stand; now they will do so from the center of the field, through a new tunnel that includes a VIP area to bring fans closer to the players before the match. Another requirement met was the installation of a new pitch with sustainable hybrid grass, designed to meet international standards. Among the novelties, the installation of a new screen, considered one of the largest in a stadium in the world, also stands out. It is also reported that businessman Emilio Azcárraga Jean requested that engineers, architects, and the rest of the team preserve the 'essence' of the venue, built by his father over half a century ago and which is now ready to host its third World Cup. These works were constantly supervised by Emilio Azcárraga Jean, who, like his father, made 'escapes' to walk through the rubble of the construction site and check its progress with his own eyes. After almost two years of inactivity at the venue—which involved the temporary move of Club América to the Ciudad de los Deportes stadium—the works to receive the 2026 World Cup have been completed. The technological aspect is one of the most outstanding features of the Estadio Banorte's remodeling. The stadium's typography was designed by architect Pedro Ramírez Vázquez. An adjustment that meets FIFA requirements is the players' access to the pitch. As for the capacity, it has been increased to 87,500 fans. Likewise, it is noteworthy that cash will no longer be used, only cards. In terms of exclusivity, Tunnel Club, Super Seats, and Corner Club areas were created, offering a privileged view of the field and high-level services. Among the improvements revealed on its website, the installation of LED lights, over 1,200 Wi-Fi 6 antennas for good connectivity throughout the venue, a new video surveillance system with 270 cameras, and an updated sound system with 500 new speakers to improve acoustics stand out.
