Estadio Azteca

See one of the world’s largest and most famous soccer stadiums, the host to two historic FIFA World Cup championships.

Built in 1966, Estadio Azteca just south of Mexico City is a popular center for world soccer and other sports and entertainment events. Attend an event with more than 100,000 other fans in this huge stadium, called by some the “cathedral of Mexican soccer.”

Architects Pedro Ramírez Vázquez and Rafael Mijares built the stadium in preparation for the 1970 FIFA World Cup. The stadium hosted 10 events, including the final game with Brazil defeating Italy, in which Pelé played his last major professional game. A second FIFA World Cup event was held here in 1986, with another nine exciting matches including Argentina’s 2-1 victory over England. Imagine the thrill of seeing some of the world’s best soccer in the stadium where Diego Maradona of Argentina scored two of soccer’s most famous goals of all time, including the goal known as the Hand of God.

Although your visit is not likely to include another FIFA World Cup, you may have a chance to see Mexico City’s professional soccer team, Club de Fútbol América, also known as the Eagles, or the Mexican national team. Check the calendar of events on the official website and get tickets for an exciting match, whichever two teams are playing. The stadium hosts concerts as well. Past musical appearances have included Michael Jackson, U2 and Paul McCartney.

Pay to join one of the daily tours of the stadium to see the player tunnel, media room, dressing room, tennis facilities and Nacho, Club América’s number one fan. Explore the Decades exhibit with a timeline of events in Azteca Stadium. The facility also has a children’s party room with zip line, climbing wall, mini soccer field and elevated maze.

Estadio Azteca is about 10 miles (16 kilometers) south of the historical center of Mexico City in Santa Úrsula Coapa, Coyoacán. Use the metro and light rail to reach the stadium, exiting at Estadio Azteca station. Although the stadium has car parking, you must allow plenty of time if you drive since game day traffic is excessive.