With the 2026 World Cup fast approaching, Mexico faces a paradox: the country will host one of the biggest sporting events in the world, yet both its national team and domestic league are still searching for a clear identity.
The Mexican Football Federation has spoken about restructures, youth development programs, and infrastructure upgrades —but the results on the field, at both club and national level, have yet to reflect genuine transformation.
The World Cup’s impact is undeniable: new investments in stadiums, international exposure, and a chance to elevate Mexican football’s global image. However, there’s growing concern about short-term thinking.
Youth national teams remain unstable, Liga MX still prioritizes commercial interests over development, and the pressure to “look good” on the world stage could lead to rushed or superficial decisions.
Another concern is the lack of a unified vision among the country’s football institutions. The Liga MX, FMF, and local federations often work independently rather than collaboratively, creating fragmented efforts that hinder long-term progress. Without alignment between clubs, academies, and the national team, Mexico risks missing out on the developmental benefits that a World Cup should bring.
Meanwhile, nations like the United States and Canada —Mexico’s co-hosts— have embraced modernization with clear goals. The MLS and the Canadian Premier League are investing heavily in grassroots programs and international partnerships, aiming to ensure their national teams compete at higher levels by 2026.
Mexico must decide whether it wants to follow that path or remain content with its current model, which relies heavily on domestic talent circulation and limited exports.
The real test will be whether the 2026 World Cup leaves a lasting legacy or just a spectacle. Mexico has the potential to use this moment to strengthen its sporting infrastructure, export more talent, and build a truly competitive league —but only if leadership understands that opportunity lies in long-term planning, not short-term optics.
The 2026 World Cup could be the showcase Mexico needs —or the mirror that exposes its deepest flaws. The outcome will depend on what happens in the coming months, not just during the 90 minutes of each match.