UK Foreign Office issues World Cup travel warning for Mexico due to protests

Mexico is one of three host nations for the 2026 World Cup, alongside the United States and Canada.

British football fans travelling to Mexico for the 2026 FIFA World Cup are being warned that ongoing protests in the country could cause travel disruption during the tournament.

The UK Foreign Office has updated its travel advice to highlight demonstrations in Mexico City that have intermittently blocked roads, affected access to the city centre and, on some occasions, disrupted routes to the capital’s international airport.

Mexico is one of three host nations for the 2026 World Cup, alongside the United States and Canada. The tournament runs from 11 June to 19 July, with matches taking place in Mexico City, Guadalajara and Monterrey.

The warning comes after workers’ union protests in Mexico City led to temporary closures around the historic Zócalo district and disruption on major roads including Paseo de la Reforma, Periférico Sur and Circuito Interior.

The Foreign Office said: “These protests are generally peaceful, but some have resulted in clashes with police, as well as an increased security presence around affected areas. It is illegal for foreign nationals to participate in political activities in Mexico. If you join demonstrations, the Mexican authorities may detain and deport you. If you come across protests, move away from the area.”

The advice is likely to be of particular interest to British supporters planning to attend matches in Mexico City, which is expected to be one of the tournament’s busiest destinations.

Officials have urged travellers to monitor local media, allow extra time for journeys and be prepared for possible transport delays if demonstrations continue during the competition.

The World Cup is expected to draw hundreds of thousands of international visitors to Mexico, with fan festivals planned in all three host cities and additional public viewing events expected across the country.

Authorities are warning that accommodation and transport networks will face significant pressure during the tournament. Travellers may also encounter increased police and security checks, particularly around stadiums, fan zones and transport hubs.

Supporters have been advised to carry their original passports at all times, as copies or photographs of documents may not be accepted by immigration officials.

The Foreign Office is also urging fans to buy tickets only through FIFA’s official ticketing platform, warning that fraudulent tickets sold through unofficial websites and social media channels may be rejected at stadium gates.

With many supporters expected to travel between Mexico, the United States and Canada during the tournament, officials have stressed the importance of checking entry requirements for each host country before departure.

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