MEXICO CITY (AP) – Mexico City set a world record for the largest soccer school in history by filling the capital’s Zocalo Square on Sunday with 9,500 participants filling the capital’s Zocalo Square for the opening game of the World Cup in June.
The city’s main square became a huge outdoor practice field where crowds practiced soccer under the guidance of instructors. Participants kicked a ball and performed exercises tailored to promote sports and community participation.
Guinness World Record holder Alfredo Arista Rueda confirmed the record during the event.
“You’re officially awesome. Officially awesome! Congratulations!” he said, and the crowd cheered and threw confetti into the air.
Organizers said the number of participants exceeded the previous Guinness World Record, which was set in June 2025 when 1,038 people attended a soccer class in Seattle.
Fans in attendance said the record-breaking class will boost momentum heading into the World Cup.
“The Azteca Stadium hosted Pele and Maradona. The World Cup here is magical,” said soccer coach Mario Alberto Álvarez Acosta.
Mexico also hosted the World Cup in 1970 and 1986, with great players from Brazil and Argentina winning the trophy.
Housewife Sandra Lopez Figueroa was also having fun.
“It was fun. I did things I didn’t even know if I could do,” she said.
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Savarese reported from Sao Paulo.
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