By COLlive reporter
As the FIFA World Cup 2026 made history as the first tournament ever to be hosted across three countries — Mexico, the United States, and Canada — Chabad centers throughout Mexico expanded their activities to welcome the influx of Jewish visitors.
While matches were played across North America, the tournament officially kicked off in Mexico City, placing Mexico at the center of the global celebration.
Mexico had previously hosted the World Cup in 1970 and 1986, but this year was especially significant as the opening match took place in Mexico City. In response to the arrival of thousands of visitors, Chabad centers throughout the country brought in additional yeshiva students and volunteers to assist travelers and strengthen Jewish outreach during the tournament.
A dedicated website was launched to serve as a central resource for Jewish visitors, providing information about Shabbat meals, kosher food, synagogue services, and assistance throughout their stay.
World Cup matches in Mexico were held in Mexico City, Guadalajara, and Monterrey — all home to active Chabad centers. Activities in Mexico City were led by Rabbis Yosef and Mendy Meislish, by Rabbi Abraham Srugo in Guadalajara, and by Zalmy Srugo in Monterrey.
Special tefillin stations were established near fan zones and major gathering areas, allowing Jewish fans from around the world to connect with their heritage amid the excitement of the games.
The first Shabbat of the World Cup demonstrated the scope of the effort, with more than 200 guests participating in the communal Shabbat meals at Chabad of Mexico City.
Mexico City, home to a thriving Jewish community, offered a wide range of kosher food options, as well as numerous synagogues, kollelim, and yeshivos. Chabad volunteers helped visitors navigate these resources and make the most of their stay.
The World Cup project in Mexico City was coordinated by Yossi Vaie together with the dedicated team of yeshiva students Binyomin Serusi, Tzemach Cohen, and Liel Contreras Goldstein, who assisted with outreach, tefillin campaigns, and visitor services throughout the tournament.
Throughout the World Cup, Chabad centers across Mexico remained committed to ensuring that every Jewish visitor had access to Jewish life, kosher food, tefillin, and a warm Jewish home away from home.
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