A protest blocked an avenue leading to Mexico City’s Azteca Stadium for hours on Tuesday, just days before the 2026 World Cup kicks off at the venue. As football fans flood into tournament, co-hosted by the United States and Canada, Mexico is grappling with chaotic teacher protests in its capital.

Thousands took part in Tuesday’s protest, which was led by a breakaway group of the CNTE teachers union following a week of demonstrations that President Claudia Sheinbaum has called a “provocation.” “As if to say, ‘Look at how bad the situation is in Mexico,’” she told a press conference. A police blockade prevented the demonstrators from reaching the Azteca Stadium, which will host the World Cup opening match on Thursday.

With thousands of officers deployed and concrete barriers set up around the venue, protesters rallied on the street for around three hours before dispersing. Mexico City’s security chief, Pablo Vazquez, said in a statement that the movement had been peaceful. Sheinbaum said earlier that the opening match was “guaranteed,” though the left-leaning leader again ruled out using police to repress the demonstrations. Her government has favored dialogue with the protesting teachers, but to no avail.

“We’re going to continue our struggle,” said protester Austreberto Flores. The CNTE teachers’ union has been on strike since last week to demand a salary raise and the reversal of a pension law — which the government considers unfeasible. The teachers have also set up camp near the World Cup fan zone in Mexico City’s Zocalo Square.

For Advert, Event Coverage/Press Conference Invite, Story/Article Publication & Other Media Services
Contact Us On WhatsApp
Send Email To: citizennewsng@gmail.com
Visit Citizen NewsNG To Read More Latest And Interesting News Across Nigeria And The World