FIFA Faces Criticism for Blocking Labor Inspection at Azteca Stadium

The Building and Wood Workers’ International accuses FIFA of preventing independent oversight of worker conditions during renovations for the 2026 World Cup.

The Building and Wood Workers’ International (BWI) claims FIFA denied access to inspect labor conditions at Mexico City's Azteca Stadium, which is undergoing renovations for the 2026 World Cup.
FIFA reportedly withdrew from a previously negotiated agreement for joint labor inspections across the tournament's host nations: Mexico, the United States, and Canada.
The Azteca Stadium, set to host five World Cup games and historically significant as the first venue to host three tournament openers, is undergoing a $1 billion renovation project that has created approximately 1,000 jobs.
BWI argues that the lack of independent oversight leaves workers vulnerable, with only 7% of Mexican construction workers belonging to unions, and has called for proactive inspections to prevent potential harm.
FIFA has stated that it is not directly managing the renovations but is working with stakeholders to monitor labor conditions, while critics accuse the organization of failing to uphold its commitment to international labor standards.