Mexican President Sheinbaum says ‘everything is under control’ ahead of 2026 FIFA World Cup opening ceremony

Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum said on Wednesday that «everything is under control» for the World Cup opening ceremony, despite continued protests from teachers.

However, she told reporters that Mexico City’s famous Zocalo Square – a focal point for protests – may no longer be able to accommodate a planned fan zone during Thursday’s opening match between Mexico and South Africa.

If the demonstrators “for whatever reason” prevent the use of the square for the fan zone, she said AFPthere will be alternative public viewing places in the capital.

The teachers’ union CNTE has been on strike since last week to demand a salary increase and pension reform.

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Teachers block the streets in the capital every day. On Tuesday they marched along the main road leading to the Azteca stadium and had earlier toppled memorial statues of footballers.

Relatives of people disappeared by criminal groups or authorities also plan to join protests across the city on Thursday.

Mexico is hosting the World Cup together with Canada and the United States.

Published on June 10, 2026