Both in Liga MX and Mexican national team games, stadiums in Mexico and around the world have always been distinguished by the color given to them by Mexican fans, whether dressed as characters from ‘Chavo del 8’, painted faces, and of course, wrestling masks. However, once the World Cup Repechage begins and until the end of the 2026 World Cup, no colossus will be able to give access to fans with masks.
It should be remembered that Monterrey’s Estadio BBVA is the first to host a key game that defines the World Cup qualification places, so wrestling costumes will be prohibited, according to FIFA statutes.
Prohibited items for entry to 2026 World Cup playoffs and matches
- Wrestling masks
- Professional photo and video equipment
- Balls
- Sharp weapons or objects
- Sirens, horns or whistles
- Cigarettes and e-cigarettes
- Musical instruments
- Food and drink
- Lighters or matches
- Suitcases or backpacks
- Umbrella
- Packaging and/or containers
- Fireworks, smoke bombs or gunpowder
- Lasers
- Flags
- Pets
- Aerosols
Bolivia vs Suriname, first game without Lucha Libre masks
Of course, luchador masks are Mexican cultural icons not only of wrestling, but they have also been transferred to a form of belonging that is seen in Mexican soccer and in matches of the Mexican national team, but since the World Cup playoff game between Bolivia and Suriname, it is forbidden to enter with them.
Bolivia vs Suriname will play their key World Cup match on Thursday, March 26 at 04:00 PM, Mexico City time.
Since the 2022 World Cup in Qatar, masks have been part of the list of objects not allowed in international stadiums that FIFA “appropriates”, as well as flags or aerosols, which in the 1990s and 2000s were still common.
Whether or not for reasons of international security, the 2026 World Cup at home is left without the cultural icon. And this is the first time this has happened with Mexico hosting a World Cup, as in 1970 and 1986 they were part of the color to support El Tri.
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