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Mexico City Launches Free Citywide Youth ‘Ollamaliztli’ Soccer Tournament Ahead of 2026 World Cup

The initiative uses broad institutional backing to advance inclusion through no-cost play.

Overview

  • More than 7,000 girls and boys from all 16 boroughs are registered to compete in roughly 1,500 matches, with the final set for Feb. 1, 2026.
  • The event supplies uniforms, balls and certified referees at no charge, with support from the Mexican Football Federation, Adidas and FEMSA.
  • UNICEF and UNHCR are participating with inclusion and children's rights activities, including outreach to refugee minors.
  • City leaders announced legacy plans that include building 100 new fields, rehabilitating 500 sports spaces and staging a Guinness record bid for the largest football class early next year.
  • FIFA México’s Jürgen Mainka framed the tournament as an early World Cup legacy, noting Mexico City is about 35 weeks from hosting matches at Estadio Azteca.