A man has died after falling from the box seating area during the reopening of a major stadium in Mexico City, authorities confirmed.
The incident took place at the iconic Estadio Azteca shortly before a friendly match between Mexico and Portugal. The match was organised to mark the stadium’s reopening ahead of upcoming international events.
According to the Mexico City Citizen Security Secretariat, the man was intoxicated and attempted to move from the second level to the first by climbing along the outside structure. He lost his balance and fell to the ground floor.
Medical teams responded immediately, but he was pronounced dead at the scene.
The reopening event had tight security, with a one-kilometre perimeter around the stadium and restricted entry for ticket holders only. Despite the upgraded facilities, including improved seating and lighting, the atmosphere was subdued due to heavy security and limited fan activities.
The stadium is set to host matches in the upcoming FIFA World Cup, scheduled to begin on June 11, making it the first venue to host games in three different World Cups.
Authorities have not released the identity of the deceased. The incident has raised concerns over safety and crowd management during major sporting events.
