Mexico City Government: Phantom Companies Awarded $100 Million for World Cup 2026 Works
Just as the final countdown begins for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, with Mexico set to host the opening match against South Africa on June 11 at the renovated Estadio Azteca (to be known as Estadio de la Ciudad de México during the tournament), a disturbing revelation has emerged: a series of phantom companies are reportedly operating within the capital, tasked with renovation works at various locations.
It’s worth noting that only five World Cup matches will be played in Mexico City, with the most significant being the opening game. The Mexico City government had announced an investment of 4 billion pesos (approximately $235 million USD) for a series of works under the Secretariat of Works and Services, aiming to accommodate over 5 million tourists during the 2026 World Cup.
The “Phantom” Contracts: A Closer Look
Clara Brugada, the head of the Mexico City government, announced a series of works primarily aimed at improving citizen mobility. These include the comprehensive renovation of Metro Line 1 and the creation of the Chapulín Trolleybus, connecting Chapultepec to Universidad.
However, a review of over 1,700 contracts has unveiled that at least three of the companies responsible for World Cup-related projects exhibit characteristics of phantom companies. These firms are recently established, lack operational offices, and their founders possess short or unclear entrepreneurial histories.
Last year, these companies secured contracts totaling 96.2 million pesos (approximately $5.6 million USD) for World Cup 2026 works. These projects include the renovation of football fields in various boroughs and the construction of several sections of the Calzada de Tlalpan bike path, which will connect the Estadio Azteca and the Zócalo.
Companies Under Scrutiny
One of the companies tasked with renovating over 500 football fields and the Calzada de Tlalpan bike path is Arquitectura Ruhe. This firm secured contracts worth over 31 million pesos (approximately $1.8 million USD) despite being in existence for barely a year and winning these bids five months after its creation.
Another company raising suspicions is ISCON Soluciones Integrales en Diseño y Construcción, established three years ago. It won two contracts: one for a section of the bike path designed to improve mobility between the Zócalo and the Estadio Azteca. Similarly, Gakida Arquitectura was awarded a 25 million peso (approximately $1.4 million USD) contract by the Secretariat of Works and Services, yet it has only been in operation for five months.
Public Discontent and Unanswered Questions
Adding to these concerns is widespread public dissatisfaction regarding these projects. According to reports, there was no consultation with residents in areas surrounding the Estadio Azteca, where witnesses claim mobility has been significantly hampered. Furthermore, the exact allocation of funds for these extensive works remains unclear.
This investigation raises critical questions about the transparency and oversight of public funds allocated for major international events. The use of phantom companies for significant infrastructure projects not only jeopardizes the quality and timely completion of these works but also erodes public trust in governmental processes.
Authorities are yet to provide comprehensive explanations regarding the selection criteria for these companies and the measures in place to prevent such alleged irregularities.
Source: https://www.marca.com/mx/futbol/mundial/2026/03/09/69ae531946163f972c8b456d.html
