Azteca Stadium Reopens, Celebrating Legends Pelé and Maradona with National Team
Portugal’s national team will take part in the stadium’s reinauguration on March 29. The match against Mexico kicks off at 02:00 local time.
Historic moments at the Coloso de Santa Úrsula
The Azteca opened on May 29, 1966. The first match paired Mexican club América with Torino from Italy.
It hosted two World Cup finals in 1970 and 1986. Both matches crowned players now regarded as football royalty.
Pelé and the 1970 final
On June 21, 1970, Brazil beat Italy 4-1. Edson Arantes do Nascimento, Pelé, scored the opening goal.
That victory gave Pelé his third World Cup title. He left the tournament as one of its greatest figures.
Maradona and 1986
The 1986 quarterfinal against England became legendary. Diego Maradona scored the “Hand of God” goal.
Minutes later he completed what many call the “Goal of the Century”. He scored twice more in the semis versus Belgium.
Argentina then beat West Germany 3-2 in the final on June 29, 1986. Jorge Burruchaga finished the decisive move late in the match.
Renovation and modern upgrades
Major remodelling began in May 2024. The works are now complete ahead of the reopening.
Original capacity once exceeded 131,000. The renovated venue now holds about 87,000 spectators.
- New roof structure.
- Remodelled seating and stands.
- State-of-the-art playing surface.
- Modern lighting and sound systems.
- Improved access and public transport links.
New name and future events
The stadium now carries the naming rights as Estado Banorte. It will host World Cup matches again in 2026.
Organisers plan five matches there during the 2026 tournament. The venue aims to add fresh chapters to its storied history.
Azteca Stadium Reopens with renewed infrastructure and a clear ambition. The occasion blends memory and modernity.
Celebrating Legends Pelé and Maradona with National Team fixtures will be part of the narrative. Filmogaz.com will follow the reopening closely.
