Mexico's World Cup Hosting Sparks Controversy Amid Social Unrest

As the 2026 World Cup kicks off in Mexico, the US, and Canada, a growing number of Mexicans are speaking out against their country's role in hosting the tournament. The opposition stems from the nation's pressing social issues, including a high number of missing persons cases. Carla Lechuga, the leader of a organization dedicated to finding missing people, Lirios Buscadores Izcalli, expressed her discontent, stating that the resources allocated to the World Cup could be better spent on addressing the country's social problems. Lechuga's son disappeared in 2025, and she believes that the government should prioritize the welfare of its citizens over international sporting events. Recently, a mass protest took place outside the 'Azteca' stadium in Mexico City, where demonstrators blocked access to the arena, demanding higher wages for education workers. The Russian national team is not participating in the tournament, having been banned from international competitions since 2022. As the World Cup progresses, it remains to be seen how Mexico will balance its hosting duties with the growing discontent among its population.