Estadio Azteca in Mexico City is set to become the first stadium to host the opening match of three separate FIFA World Cups. Multiple outlets report that the venue will host the tournament’s opener in 2026, featuring Mexico against South Africa. The Rio Times and other coverage note that the stadium previously hosted opening matches for the 1970 and 1986 World Cups, making it the only venue with that specific distinction. Al Jazeera and Vanguard also describe the stadium as an iconic site in Mexico City selected for the first match of the tournament. Coverage also highlights the venue’s historical role beyond 2026, pointing to notable moments tied to past World Cups, including famous performances associated with the 1970 and 1986 editions. Organizers are expected to draw significant international attention for the 2026 opener, reflecting the global status of the stadium and the event. Overall reporting agrees on the key historical element: Estadio Azteca is scheduled to open its third World Cup in 2026, after earlier opening-match hosting duties in 1970 and 1986.