Netflix has unveiled the trailer for its upcoming film Mexico 86, starring Diego Luna as Martín de la Torre, a bureaucrat who leads Mexico’s ambitious and ultimately successful bid to host the 1986 FIFA World Cup after Colombia withdrew as host. The film, directed by Gabriel Ripstein, blends comedy and drama to depict the high-stakes, last-minute effort that brought the tournament to Mexico for a second time.
The trailer, released as part of Netflix’s April 2026 slate of new previews, introduces Luna’s character as a civil servant motivated by personal connection to the sport and national pride. Luna, who also serves as an executive producer on the project, recalled attending Italy versus France at the Estadio Olímpico Universitario during the actual 1986 tournament, a memory that informed his portrayal.
According to Luna, while the character of Martín de la Torre is fictional, many of the events and figures depicted in the film are rooted in historical reality. The production consulted records and accounts from the era, incorporating real individuals such as former FIFA President João Havelange and Emilio Azcárraga, media mogul and owner of Televisa, who played a significant role in Mexico’s bid.
The film is described as being “inspired by true events but also fictionalized,” with the narrative capturing the chaotic blend of political maneuvering, logistical challenges, and cultural enthusiasm that defined Mexico’s push to host the World Cup on short notice. Gaumont USA produced the film in partnership with Netflix, following their prior collaboration on projects like Narcos.
Mexico 86 is set to premiere on Netflix on June 5, 2026, just days before Mexico officially begins its role as a co-host of the 2026 FIFA World Cup alongside the United States and Canada. The timing underscores the film’s thematic resonance with both past and present moments in which Mexico has been central to the global football stage.
The trailer’s release coincided with other Netflix previews, including those for the second season of the anime adaptation Devil May Cry and the series Worst Ex Ever, highlighting a diverse spring slate of content across genres.