Guadalajara, the capital of the state of Jalisco, will be one of the Mexican cities hosting matches in the 2026 FIFA World Cup. This city, the most important in western Mexico, stands out not only for its sports infrastructure but also for its historic role in the development of Mexican soccer, the most popular sport in the country. With historic stadiums and passionate fans, the “Pearl of the West” has been a protagonist in past editions of the tournament and is ready to shine again on the international stage.
In addition to its strong soccer tradition, Guadalajara offers a cultural life unique in the region and an identity that makes it a must-see destination for visitors who love sports. Next year, it will host some World Cup matches, yet to be announced. From the music of mariachis to the taste of tequila, Guadalajara also has something to offer for a complete World Cup experience. If you’re interested and planning to visit the city, here are 7 interesting facts every fan should know before the ball rolls in 2026.
Guadalajara is no stranger to the World Cup. The AKRON Stadium, home of Chivas, was one of the venues for the U-17 World Cup in 2011. The city also hosted matches in the 1970 and 1986 World Cups, although the main venue back then was the Jalisco Stadium. Now, in 2026, the modern red-and-white stadium will once again host world-class matches.
It’s the birthplace of one of Mexico’s most popular teams.
Chivas is one of the teams with the longest history and most fans in the country. Founded in 1906, Club Deportivo Guadalajara is known for fielding only Mexican players, a tradition that makes it unique in the world. It has won 12 league titles, and its rivalry with América is the center of the famous Clásico Nacional.
Guadalajara is also home to another giant: Atlas.
Although Chivas steals most of the spotlight, Atlas is also a historic club. Founded in 1916, the red-and-black team broke a title drought of more than 70 years by winning the 2021 Apertura, and repeated it in the 2022 Clausura. Its loyal fans have been a fundamental part of the city’s soccer scene. Furthermore, it is one of the teams that has produced the most important players in the national soccer world, including Jared Borgetti, Rafael Márquez, Oswaldo Sánchez, Andrés Guardado, Pavel Pardo, and Juan Pablo “Chato” Rodríguez.
The city has two World Cup stadiums.
In addition to Estadio AKRON, Estadio Jalisco also hosted not just one but multiple World Cups, in both 1970 and 1986. Legends like Pelé played there. Although it won’t be the official host city in 2026, its legacy remains a source of pride for Guadalajara residents.
Guadalajara is more than just soccer.
The city is also known as the home of mariachi, tequila, and Jalisco folklore. During the 2026 World Cup, visitors can enjoy a complete experience: from the excitement in the stands to the music and traditional flavors in every corner.
It is one of the cities with the most league titles in the history of Mexican soccer.
With Chivas as one of the biggest winners in national football and Atlas as the most recent two, Guadalajara has an impressive 15 league titles among its clubs currently competing in the First Division. This accumulation makes the city one of the most successful and competitive spots in Mexican soccer. Mexico City is ahead of it, but that’s another story.
Guadalajara was Pelé’s home in 1970
During the 1970 World Cup in Mexico, Pelé and the Brazilian national team played matches in Guadalajara, specifically at the Jalisco Stadium. There, the “Canarinha,” led by the “10,” won the hearts of the city and advanced to their third world title, although the final was not held in that city.
Source: informador
