Mexico City police fired tear gas at protesting teachers to prevent them from reaching the Zocalo plaza, where the fan fest for the 2026 FIFA World Cup is under construction. The clash erupted when teachers broke through metal barriers at the entrance to the historic square.
The Zocalo plaza is located just a block from the government palace and features a giant screen where fans will watch Mexico's first World Cup game on June 11. The protest threatened to disrupt preparations for one of the tournament's most high-profile public viewing areas.
A dissident faction of the teachers' union organised the march and has threatened to summon millions of teachers to the capital during the World Cup if the government does not fulfill their demands for salary raises and the reversal of pension laws.
The confrontation highlights the tension between Mexico's role as a World Cup host nation and the unresolved grievances of its public sector workers. The teachers' union has a long history of militant action and has previously shut down parts of Mexico City with large-scale protests.
The World Cup is set to begin in less than two weeks, with Mexico hosting matches alongside the United States and Canada. Any sustained disruption to fan zones or transportation infrastructure could embarrass the host nation on the world stage.
Security forces have set up metal barriers around the Zocalo area to protect the World Cup construction zone. The use of tear gas against teachers protesting near a sporting venue is likely to draw criticism from human rights organisations.
The teachers' demands centre on salary increases and opposition to pension reform legislation that they say will reduce their retirement benefits. Their threat to mobilise millions during the tournament adds a significant security and logistical challenge for Mexican authorities.