Luxury box owners at Mexico City’s Azteca Stadium are gearing up for the 2026 World Cup, but there seems to be a clash of interests with FIFA. The owners expect FIFA to honor a 60-year-old deal that grants them unlimited access to their seats for the next 99 years. On the other hand, FIFA is pushing for full control of the World Cup stadiums 30 days before the first match and seven days after the last. This conflicting situation has created tension between the two parties.
The peculiar history surrounding the purchase of the luxury boxes at Azteca Stadium has only added fuel to the fire. To help fund the construction of the stadium back in the 1960s, Mexican businessman Emilio Azcárraga Milmo sold boxes to private investors for 115,000 pesos, which was approximately $9,000 at that time. This deal gave the owners the right to use the boxes for 99 years, including access to football matches, concerts, and other events like the 1970 and 1986 World Cups in Mexico. The spokesman of an association of 134 box owners, Roberto Ruano, has made it clear that they have no intentions of relinquishing their luxury boxes during the World Cup.
FIFA’s Stance
FIFA has affirmed its commitment to collaborating with all 16 host cities for the 2026 World Cup, including assisting in the renovation plans for Azteca Stadium. However, specific details regarding fan access and other match-related information will be disclosed at a later date. The current asking price for a 20-square-meter luxury box ranges from 15 to 25 million pesos in Mexico City, highlighting their significant value. With the stadium set to host five games, including the opening match, during the World Cup, the conflict between the luxury box owners and FIFA intensifies.
A Waiting Game
As the tournament draws closer, the tension between the luxury box owners and FIFA continues to escalate. While some box owners have opted to release their seats for the 2026 tournament in exchange for box upgrades and other benefits, others like Ruano remain adamant about their right to access their designated seats. The thorough history and significant financial investment that the owners have made in securing these boxes make them reluctant to compromise their access during the World Cup.
Despite the ongoing conflict, there seems to be a glimmer of hope for a resolution. Talks between the stadium officials and the luxury box owners have taken place, but no concrete proposal has been put forward yet. Emilio Azcárraga Jean, the current owner of the stadium through Televisa, has expressed optimism about finding a solution that aligns with the interests of both parties. While the details of the renovation plans for Azteca Stadium remain unclear, it is evident that negotiations are underway to address the concerns of the luxury box owners.
The clash between luxury box owners and FIFA at Mexico City’s Azteca Stadium underscores the complexities of balancing tradition, ownership rights, and FIFA’s operational needs during the World Cup. The outcome of these negotiations will not only impact the luxury box owners but also set a precedent for future World Cup tournaments. Only time will tell how this conflict will be resolved and whether both parties can reach a mutually agreeable solution.