2026 World Cup Guide: Guadalajara
Return to Matador Network’s 2026 FIFA World Cup Travel Guide.
Guadalajara will host four group stage matches during the 2026 FIFA World Cup, with Mexico playing at Estadio Akron on June 18 — a day that’s sure to be one of the liveliest at the stadium and throughout the city.
Guadalajara, with a metro population of just over five million, is one of Mexico’s largest cities — but it’s far more manageable than sprawling Mexico City, making it especially welcoming for visiting fans. And soccer runs deep here. The sport is everywhere, from formal youth leagues to casual games in neighborhood parks. The city is home to two top-tier men’s Liga MX teams — Chivas and Atlas F.C. — and one of the country’s leading women’s teams, C.D. Guadalajara Femenil. Chivas and the women’s squad both play at Estadio Akron, while Atlas shares Estadio Jalisco — one of the country’s most historic stadiums, located in the heart of the city — with Club Leones Negros, a second-division team backed by the University of Guadalajara.
If you’re planning to visit Guadalajara during the World Cup, expect packed plazas, celebrations in the streets, and energy that spills out of the stadium and into the city.
Venue: Estadio Akron
Capacity: 49,800
Match dates
Guadalajara’s Estadio Akron will host four group stage matches during the 2026 FIFA World Cup, but no elimination rounds. The confirmed match dates at this venue are:
- Thursday, June 11, 2026: Group Stage, Match 2
- Thursday, June 18, 2026: Group Stage, Match 28 (Mexico game two)
- Tuesday, June 23, 2026: Group Stage, Match 48
- Friday, June 26, 2026: Group Stage, Match 66
How to get to Estadio Akron from Guadalajara
Photo: FERNANDO MACIAS ROMO/Shutterstock
Estadio Akron sits about 30 minutes west of Guadalajara Centro by Uber, depending on traffic. Public transportation is doable but takes more time — around 60 to 90 minutes — and usually involves at least one transfer.
Shuttle services from the city center haven’t been confirmed yet, but there’s a good chance something will be in place closer to kickoff. If so, they’ll likely be the easiest option — especially if you’re staying near one of the main pickup points.
If shuttles aren’t an option, rideshares or carpooling are your best bet. The stadium has a big parking lot, but it fills up fast and can be a bit chaotic, particularly if you don’t speak Spanish or aren’t used to navigating game-day traffic in Mexico. And after the match, expect delays. Between foot traffic and gridlocked roads, getting out of the area can take a while, which is another good reason to let someone else handle the driving.
Official Fan Zones for the Guadalajara World Cup Matches
Details will be announced at this link when official locations are available.
Where to Eat, Play, and Stay in Guadalajara for the World Cup
Where to Eat, Play, and Stay in Guadalajara for the World Cup
If you plan to travel to Guadalajara for the 2026 World Cup, here’s where to stay, party, eat, and explore so you can make the most of your time in the happening city.
The Best Hotels Near Estadio Akron
The Best Hotels Near Estadio Akron
There are a few hotel options near the stadium, including business-style properties and newer spots that may host players or team staff.
The 11 Best Soccer Bars in Guadalajara
The 11 Best Soccer Bars in Guadalajara
Guadalajara is a soccer-crazed city sure to be rocking throughout the tournament, so you’ll have no problem posting up at a good bar.