Mexico City sets world record for largest soccer class

Over 9,500 participants filled the capital's Zocalo square for the event.

Mar. 16, 2026 at 6:19pm

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Mexico City set a new Guinness World Record on Sunday for the largest soccer class ever, with 9,500 participants filling the capital's Zocalo square to practice drills and exercises under the guidance of instructors. The previous record was set in Seattle in 2025 with 1,038 participants.

Why it matters

The record-breaking class is seen as building momentum for Mexico as the country prepares to host the opening match of the 2026 World Cup. Mexico has a rich history of hosting the World Cup, with the 1970 and 1986 tournaments taking place in the country.

The details

The Zocalo square was transformed into a massive, open-air training ground as the participants followed coordinated soccer drills and exercises. Guinness World Records representative Alfredo Arista Rueda confirmed the new record during the event, drawing cheers from the crowd.

  • The soccer class took place on Sunday, March 16, 2026.
  • The previous Guinness World Record for largest soccer class was set in Seattle in June 2025, with 1,038 participants.

The players

Alfredo Arista Rueda

A representative from Guinness World Records who confirmed the new record during the event.

Mario Alberto Álvarez Acosta

A soccer coach who expressed excitement about Mexico hosting the upcoming World Cup.

Sandra López Figueroa

A housewife who participated in the record-breaking soccer class and said she had fun and discovered new abilities.

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What they’re saying

“You are officially amazing. Officially Amazing! Congratulations!”

— Alfredo Arista Rueda, Guinness World Records representative (AP)

“The Azteca Stadium has hosted Pelé and Maradona; the World Cup here is magical”

— Mario Alberto Álvarez Acosta, Soccer coach (AP)

“I had fun; I did things I didn't even know I could do”

— Sandra López Figueroa, Participant (AP)

What’s next

Mexico will host the opening match of the 2026 World Cup in June.

The takeaway

Mexico's record-breaking soccer class demonstrates the country's passion for the sport and its excitement to host the upcoming World Cup, building on its rich history of hosting the global tournament.