Estadio Azteca (Old)

The original Azteca configuration hosted the famous 1986 World Cup including the 'Hand of God' and 'Goal of the Century' by Diego Maradona. The stadium has since been significantly renovated and reduced in capacity, making the original cavernous bowl a historical configuration.

Estadio Azteca was the first stadium in history to host two separate FIFA World Cup Finals, occurring in 1970 and 1986. The stadium was constructed on the volcanic rock bed of the erupted Xitle volcano, requiring the removal of 180,000 tons of rock to create its foundation. To maintain its massive capacity while ensuring optimal sightlines, the playing field was excavated 9.5 meters below street level into the volcanic ground. It is the only venue where both Pelé in 1970 and Diego Maradona in 1986 lifted the World Cup trophy, earning it the nickname 'The Soul of Mexico'. A commemorative plaque at the stadium honors the 1970 semi-final between Italy and West Germany as the 'Partido del Siglo' or 'Game of the Century'.