Liga MX: FIFA Approves Stadium Use for Playoffs | 2026 World Cup Venues Confirmed

Liga MX clubs will relinquish control of Estadio Banorte, Estadio Akron, and Estadio BBVA to FIFA in May 2026, according to multiple reports. This handover is necessary to prepare the venues for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, which will be jointly hosted by Canada, Mexico, and the United States.

The decision impacts the scheduling of the Clausura 2026 tournament, as Liga MX will need to adjust its calendar to accommodate FIFA’s preparations. Mediotiempo first reported the confirmation from Liga MX regarding the handover timeline.

The three stadiums – Estadio Banorte in Monterrey, Estadio Akron in Guadalajara, and Estadio BBVA in Guadalupe – are slated to host matches during the expanded 48-team World Cup. FIFA’s control will allow for necessary renovations and logistical arrangements to be completed well in advance of the tournament’s opening in June 2026.

Liga MX Schedule Adjustments

The confirmation addresses concerns raised about the potential impact on the Liguilla, the Liga MX playoff tournament. Sports Illustrated and ESPN Deportes reported that there were questions about whether the stadiums would be available for use during the Liguilla preceding the World Cup. However, recent assurances indicate that the stadiums *will* be available for the Liguilla, despite the eventual FIFA takeover.

Infobae reported that FIFA has officially authorized the handover of Estadio Ciudad de México and Estadio Guadalajara to occur by May. This timeline allows for sufficient preparation time before the World Cup commences.

Stadium Details

Estadio Banorte, home to Monterrey, and Estadio BBVA, home to Tigres UANL, are both located in the Monterrey metropolitan area. Estadio Akron is the home stadium of Chivas Guadalajara.

The handover of these stadiums is a significant step in Mexico’s preparations for co-hosting the 2026 World Cup. The tournament will mark the first time the World Cup has been jointly hosted by three nations and the first time it will feature 48 participating teams.

The decision to allow continued use of the stadiums for the Liguilla provides some relief to Liga MX clubs and fans, ensuring that the domestic competition will not be significantly disrupted in the lead-up to the global football event.

Chivas Guadalajara’s squad planning for the Liguilla is already being affected by player call-ups for national team duties related to World Cup preparations, as noted by Rebaño Pasión. The club will need to adjust its lineup accordingly.

The 2026 FIFA World Cup is scheduled to take place from June 11 to July 19, 2026, across 16 stadiums in 16 cities throughout Canada, Mexico, and the United States.