Mexico City authorities announced a ban on alcohol sales in certain areas ahead of the World Cup match between Mexico and the Czech Republic on Wednesday. The ban will be effective from 3 p.m. on Wednesday until 7 a.m. on Thursday, coinciding with the 7 p.m. kick-off at Mexico City Stadium. Bars and restaurants are exempt from this ban, which targets convenience stores, grocery shops, and supermarkets in the historic downtown and nearby boroughs, including the Zona Rosa entertainment district and Reforma Avenue.
The decision follows a recent celebration where over 700,000 people gathered in the city center after Mexico's victory over South Korea, resulting in significant littering, with officials reporting approximately 40 metric tons of waste collected. Public consumption of alcohol is illegal in Mexico, and authorities have increased monitoring of street vendor beer sales. Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum has encouraged fans to attend free public watch parties organized by local governments and FIFA in various cities, including nearly 20 venues in Mexico City. Mexico City’s government secretary, Cesar Cravioto, emphasized the importance of enjoying the festivities without excessive alcohol consumption.