Chaotic moments in the 2026 World Cup host countries are not limited to the United States, as huge protests have erupted in Mexico, with CNTE teacher unions demanding better working conditions.

Reports indicate that the teachers have been on strike for a week, calling on the government to increase salaries and reverse a pension law to improve their living conditions.

“We’re going to continue our struggle,” said protester Austreberto Flores as events unfolded.

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However, the government has shown no readiness to yield to the demands, and dialogue with the protesting teachers has produced no positive results.

On June 9, 2026, thousands of aggrieved teachers took to the streets to vent their displeasure, and police were forced to disperse them as the situation grew more chaotic.

Major roads have been blocked to prevent protesters from entering areas designated for football officials during the tournament.

The situation could worsen on the opening day, Thursday, June 11, 2026, as teachers have called on families of so-called “disappeared” persons, those allegedly killed or kidnapped by Mexican authorities or criminal gangs, to join the demonstrations.

“They want to make it seem like there is mass social turmoil in Mexico, and that’s not true,” Mexican official Sheinbaum said of the protests.

Despite the unrest, the opening game between Mexico and South Africa is expected to go ahead as scheduled.

This adds to the controversies surrounding the tournament, as the United States also grapples with immigration issues, with some football officials being denied entry to the country.

SB/JE

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