Mexiconewsdaily | Thursday, June 11, 2026 
Security forces shut down major roads near the World Cup stadium as protesters seek to disrupt

While Mexico City was in the grip of World Cup fever on Thursday morning, security forces were busy working to contain protests and demonstrations near the stadium and elsewhere. The inaugural match featuring El Tri was set to begin at 1 p.m. but would be preceded by a two-hour concert featuring Maná, Lila Downs, Shakira and Burna Boy. City and federal officials have been on high alert for any contingency that may occur in the vicinity of the stadium. Capital police had set up checkpoints and traffic control measures near the venue earlier in the week and city officials issued advisories for motorists and commuters, offering alternate routes around the chaos expected in southern Mexico City as 80,000 fans descended on Estadio Azteca (re-dubbed Mexico City Stadium for the duration of the World Cup). Mexico City International Airport (AICM) authorities on Thursday warned travelers to get to the terminal early for departing flights as striking teachers had been demonstrating on highways nearby and blocking two Metro stations in the vicinity. Access to the airport grounds was being heavily restricted — only travelers with valid boarding passes and employees were being permitted to enter. The teachers — members of the dissident CNTE union — have announced plans to disrupt major events on Thursday, including the opening match. Throughout the week, they have blockaded major highways and downtown intersections and federal government buildings, while negotiations aimed at halting the strike have stalled…Read more