Azteca Stadium Renamed Banorte Stadium Ahead of 2026 World Cup

Mexico City's iconic Azteca Stadium has officially been renamed Banorte Stadium as part of a sponsorship deal with Banorte, a leading Mexican bank. This change comes ahead of the stadium's hosting of the 2026 World Cup, where it will stage five matches, including the opening game. Banorte's agreement includes a loan of 2.1 billion pesos ($105 million) to fund the final stages of the stadium's remodeling, which is expected to be completed later this year or early next year. Although the name change has sparked controversy and mockery on social media, stadium owner Emilio Azcárraga Jean emphasized the modernization efforts while preserving the venue's historical essence. Notably, FIFA's regulations will prevent the use of the new name during the World Cup, requiring a reversion to its original name for the tournament. Azteca Stadium has a rich history, having hosted two previous World Cup finals in 1970 and 1986.