Mexico City’s iconic stadium is set to host the World Cup opener for a record third time after a significant upgrade. The renovation, costing nearly $200 million, increased its capacity to 87,500 seats, making it ready for the upcoming event.

Recently, Mexico and Canada experienced tensions in relations with the United States. Despite this, the historic World Cup bid emphasized teamwork between the three nations. The tournament’s selections were aimed at showcasing collaboration and unity among the countries.

During the announcement in summer 2018, leaders and soccer officials focused on unity as the event’s main theme. Justin Trudeau, then Canada’s prime minister, highlighted the event’s ability to bring the world together, demonstrating cooperation among Canada, Mexico, and the United States. Enrique Peña Nieto, Mexico’s president at the time, echoed these sentiments by affirming the nations’ profound unity. President Trump also expressed enthusiasm for the shared effort and success in securing the World Cup bid.

The first-ever three-country World Cup is scheduled to begin this Thursday in Mexico, with the local team set to play against South Africa. The tournament will include 104 games spread across the continent, covering cities like Vancouver, Toronto, New York, Kansas City, Monterrey, and Guadalajara.