Latest WC 2026 News - USA, Canada & Mexico

Mexico stands on the brink of a decisive chapter in its football history. As co-host of the 2026 World Cup alongside the USA and Canada, "El Tri" wants to finally leave the trauma of Qatar 2022 behind. Back then, the team exited in the group stage for the first time since 1978 – a shock that shook the football-crazy nation to its core. Now a new generation around striker star Santiago Giménez is supposed to bring about the turnaround.

The 24-year-old forward, who moved to AC Milan in February 2025 after strong years at Feyenoord Rotterdam, is considered a beacon of hope for an entire nation. "Bebote," as fans affectionately call him, combines goal instinct, robustness and mental maturity – qualities that Mexican attacking play has often lacked in recent years. His father Christian Giménez was already a celebrated professional in Mexico, but Santiago has the potential to reach new heights. In the Dutch Eredivisie, he made a name for himself with over 60 goals in two seasons and established himself as one of Europe's most clinical strikers.

But Giménez is not alone. Coach Javier Aguirre, who took over the helm after his return in August 2024, is relying on a mix of experienced players and young talents. Players like Edson Álvarez (West Ham), Luis Chávez and lightning-quick winger Julián Quiñones form the backbone of a team that is to free itself from the lethargy of the past. Aguirre, who has already guided Mexico to two World Cups, knows the challenges precisely and is considered the ideal man for this transition phase.

The sporting record since Aguirre took office has been mixed. At the 2025 Gold Cup, "El Tri" showed improvement over long stretches and won the title – an important step in restoring confidence. Friendly matches against European top nations were also promising, although the defence repeatedly revealed weaknesses. One thing is clear: by the opening match in Mexico City in summer 2026, the team must gain significantly more consistency.

An advantage that the Mexicans cannot value highly enough is the atmosphere in the legendary Estadio Azteca, which after extensive modernisation will host the opening match of the World Cup. Over 80,000 spectators will fervently support the team – a home advantage that has made the difference many times in tournament history. Already in 1970 and 1986, Mexico benefited from the home crowd and reached the quarter-finals on both occasions. This mark is now set as the minimum target, with internal dreams of a first-ever semi-final appearance.

Mexican football federation officials have learned from past mistakes. Rather than relying completely on stars like Hirving Lozano or Raúl Jiménez once did, the focus is deliberately on generational change. Young professionals from the MX League, supplemented by players tested in Europe, are to establish a fresh playing style – bolder, more forceful, more modern.

Whether the plan works will be seen. But one thing is certain: Mexico is burning to finally write sporting history at its third World Cup hosting – after 1970 and 1986. With Santiago Giménez as figurehead and a hungry young generation, 2026 could indeed be the summer when "El Tri" finds its way back to the world elite.