The Estadio Azteca in Mexico City will take on a sponsor’s name for the first time in its history after a wide-ranging deal with financial services firm Banorte was announced.
Grupo Ollamani, the stadium’s parent company, has reached an agreement with Banorte that also includes financing to drive the modernisation of the venue, which will host five matches during the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
The deal officially rebrands the stadium as Estadio Banorte. The company has agreed to provide MXN$2.1bn (£81.4m/€96.7m/$105.4m) to finance the renovation of the stadium, with ESPN reporting that this will be repaid over 12 years.
Carlos Hank González, chairman of the board of directors at Banorte, said: “We are happy to join the evolution of this stadium, a legend and symbol of Mexico. Today, it begins a new era, placing itself at the forefront of modernity and sustainability. Welcome to Estadio Fuerte de México, the new Estadio Banorte.”
Emilio Azcarraga Jean, president of Ollamani, added: “Ollamani and the new Estadio Banorte are proud to join forces with the most important Mexican financial institution in the country. With them, we will modernise this iconic stadium, respecting its essence and architectural designs recognised for decades. It will be the most important venue to showcase Mexico to the world.”
Last month, Ollamani announced that MXN$1.51bn had been committed to redeveloping the stadium, with the final total remaining unclear. The stadium has a capacity of 87,500 and hosts the Mexican national team, along with Liga MX rivals Club América and Cruz Azul.
The stadium has been closed since last year due to the ongoing redevelopment work taking place ahead of the World Cup. The Azteca will stage the opening match of the tournament, which Mexico will co-host alongside the US and Canada.
The redevelopment project will focus on the construction of a new access tunnel and locker rooms, the replacement of the Azteca’s current seating system, new video screens and refurbishing the roof. Media facilities are also being modified, with a new pitch expected to be introduced.
Next year will mark the third time that the Estadio Azteca has hosted the World Cup following the 1970 and 1986 editions.
