Clashes erupt in Mexico's World Cup viewing area as crowds surge to gain admission

n n

Police officers stand behind barriers outside Mexico City Stadium ahead of the opening ceremony of the FIFA 2026 World Cup in Mexico City on June 11, 2026. (Photo by Marco Antonio MARTINEZ / AFP)

n

Thousands of football fans attempted to shove their way into Mexico City’s official World Cup fan zone on Thursday, creating chaotic scenes shortly before kick-off in the opening game.

n

Access to the fan fest in Zocala plaza was hampered by metal barriers erected in recent days to prevent protesting teachers reaching the area.

n

“Stop pushing and shoving, there are children here, you’re like animals!” a city official shouted through a megaphone as he tried to control access to the fan venue where the Mexico-South Africa game at the city’s Azteca Stadium will be shown on a giant screen.

n

Some fans threw water bottles and hurled insults at police as well as chanting in support of the Mexican team.

n

“It’s crazy,” said Javier Maciel, a 25-year-old fan wrapped in a poncho with the colors of the Mexican flag. “There could have been better organization.”

n

The local government announced on social media that the site was “full” and suggested fans go to other plazas.

n

President Claudia Sheinbaum had been expected to watch the game at the fan zone but cast doubt on her presence following days of protests in the area by teachers demanding pay rises.

n

AFP

n n