Mexico's Tragic World Cup History: A Devastating Earthquake on the Eve of Glory In 1986, Mexico was set to host the World Cup, a moment of great pride for the nation. However, disaster struck when a massive earthquake hit the capital, Mexico City, leaving a trail of destruction and a staggering loss of life. The official death toll stood at 5,000, but estimates suggest the actual number could be as high as 40,000. The devastating quake, which occurred just months before the tournament, raised questions about the country's ability to host such a massive event.


Guardian reports after the disaster told of 5,000 deaths, much of the capital being razed, and doubts about Mexico hosting the finalsMexico last hosted the World Cup in 1986, but the competition was almost cancelled several months before the start when an earthquake struck the capital, Mexico City, leaving at least 5,000 people dead, 30,000 homeless and much of the city flattened, in one of the worst earthquakes to hit the country.To this day, the death toll remains disputed, with some estimates putting it as high as 40,000. Continue reading...