Particle.news
Download on the App Store

Estadio Azteca Removes Banorte Seats To Meet FIFA Neutrality Rules

The changes fulfill FIFA’s ban on non‑official ads ahead of the May 11 handover.

Overview

  • Workers have begun taking out red and white seats that spelled Banorte, with videos shared online showing the removals days after the reopening match.
  • FIFA forbids in‑stadium ads from sponsors outside the tournament, so the stands must switch to neutral seating before World Cup build‑out starts.
  • Stadium owners and Mexico City’s organizing committee face a May 11 deadline to deliver the venue to FIFA for final preparations for the June 11 Mexico–South Africa opener.
  • President Claudia Sheinbaum said the reopening revealed poor internet in and around the stadium and slow entry for fans, and she pledged federal help to fix both.
  • The Education Ministry has started issuing temporary licenses for foreign team medical staff, with seven already approved in coordination with the Health Ministry.