Protesting teachers in Mexico City escalated their labour action on Tuesday, pulling down towering football player statues along the capital’s main promenade in a dramatic demonstration ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Members of a dissident faction of the national teachers’ union, CNTE, staged the protest along the iconic Paseo de la Reforma, where five-metre-high plastic figures of international football stars had been installed as part of World Cup decorations.
Using ropes, the protesters brought down three statues, stripped them of their jerseys and set parts of them on fire, while chanting solidarity slogans and painting messages on nearby displays.
“Long live the CNTE,” one graffiti message read, while another warned: “If there isn’t a solution, the ball won’t roll.”
The group is demanding a 100 per cent salary increase and opposing pension reforms, rejecting a nine per cent wage offer agreed with the official union leadership.
The protest added to rising tension in the capital as authorities had earlier dispersed a separate march near the historic Zócalo plaza with tear gas and sound grenades. Police have since reinforced barricades around the area, which is set to host the World Cup fan festival.
Tuesday’s demonstration disrupted traffic across central Mexico City, with roads blocked and commuters stranded as security presence increased around key public spaces.
A teacher identified as Juan Pablo de la Cruz said the protest reflected deeper frustrations over labour conditions, insisting the movement would continue if demands are not met.
President Claudia Sheinbaum described the protest as peaceful and called for renewed dialogue between the government and striking teachers.
Mexico, which will co-host the 2026 FIFA World Cup with the United States and Canada, now faces growing concerns that labour unrest could overshadow preparations for the global tournament.
Credit: ThePunch
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