With the start of the year leading up to the 2026 World Cup, the Mexican National Team has already begun to define its preparation route for the most important tournament in its recent history. Mexico will be the host country, sharing the venue with the United States and Canada, and the current coach of El Tri, Javier “Vasco” Aguirre, is clear that the preparation cannot be left to chance.
One of the Mexican coach’s most ambitious plans is to concentrate the players up to 40 days before the start of the World Cup, an uncommon decision in modern soccer, but one that responds to the specific conditions of the tournament to be played on Mexican soil.
What does the concentration plan consist of?
According to Javier Aguirre himself, the training camp would begin at the beginning of May 2026.
This would mean that the players called up – both from Liga MX and European clubs – would be out of competition with their teams several weeks before the start of the World Cup.
The objective is that the group arrives with a homogeneous physical preparation and with sufficient time to adapt to the altitude conditions of Mexico City:
Located at 2,240 meters above sea level, where the opening game and other group stage matches will be played.
“The physical issue is very important; the altitude also affects the player, so adaptation is fundamental and needs time,” explained Javier Aguirre in a television interview.
Height, a determining factor
Javier Aguirre’s coaching staff believes that the altitude can become a competitive advantage.
As long as the players have an adequate adaptation.
This applies both to players who play in Europe and to those who play in lower altitude leagues.
“It’s a home World Cup and we have a huge responsibility. We have to pull out all the stops,” said the coach, making it clear that the demand will be maximum.
The physical aspect is very important
Javier Aguirre
Agreement with Liga MX owners
One of the main challenges to Javier Aguirre’s plan is that Liga MX players would miss the 2026 Clausura Liguilla, including finals.
Aware of this, Aguirre held direct meetings with the owners of the 18 clubs, accompanied by the president of the Mexican Soccer Federation, Mikel Arriola.
The result was a signed agreement whereby the clubs agree to release the selected players from the beginning of the training camp.
“Total and unconditional support for the National Team has been signed. There is no room for pretexts,” affirmed Javier Aguirre.
A plan that sets the course for El Tri
Javier “Vasco” Aguirre’s strategy reflects his intention to prioritize El Tri over club interests, something that has historically generated debate.
For the U.S. Hispanic community, this approach confirms that Mexico is betting big on playing a worthy role in its World Cup.
With an unusual preparation but aligned with the demands of the tournament.
The ball is not rolling yet, but the 2026 World Cup has already begun on the desks… and in the planning.
For more information, visit QuéOnnda.com.
