The Gold Cup Could Return to Mexico in 2027

The success of the World Cup game held in Mexico could quickly lead to another benefit next year. Early reports suggest that the Gold Cup could return here for the first time since 2003. What could it mean for the country’s football fans and the national team’s chances of success? 

A Look Back at the 2003 Event

To see what it looks like when the Gold Cup comes to Mexico, we need to go back to 2003. This event was co-hosted with the US, and the final was held in the Estadio Azteca, which has recently been described by Yahoo Sports as one of the most intimidating in the world. Prior to that, the 1977 CONCACAF Championship was held here, before the name of the tournament was rebranded.

In 1977, Mexico won all five matches, scoring 20 goals in the process. This gave them first place in the final table and a qualifying place for the 1978 World Cup in Argentina. In 2003, Mexico again won the title. This time, it took a memorable golden goal by Daniel Osorno in the 97th minute of the final against Brazil to secure the championship.

Both events highlighted Mexico’s capability in terms of organising major sporting events. With huge attendances and positive results, they helped establish the country’s reputation as being incredibly difficult to beat at home, particularly in the Estadio Azteca. They also revealed the economic benefits to be gained by hosting this kind of tournament.

A Look Ahead to 2027

While nothing official has been confirmed at the time of writing, an increasing number of rumours suggest that the 2027 Gold Cup could see the tournament return to Mexico. This ties in with the news that CONCACAF is considering expanding the event from 16 teams to 24.

This expanded format would see leading teams from the different regions being invited to take part. Saudi Arabia has already received an invitation, with up to seven more nations to be invited soon. By moving to a 24-team setup, the tournament is likely to feature six groups of four teams. This would lead to a 16-team knockout round.

The logistics of this larger tournament raise the prospect of a co-hosted tournament where some of the 51 games are played in Mexico while others are held in the US or elsewhere. The latest reports suggest that the final may be played in the Estadio Azteca. Could we see fans flocking to Mérida’s Monumento a la Patria to celebrate a win?

Predicting Mexico’s Chances of Success

Mexican fans still disappointed at the loss to England in the World Cup Round of 16 should have a new tournament on home soil to look forward to. The popularity of prediction sites like FanDuel Predicts allows fans to trade contracts covering predictions. Available in all 50 US states, it gives an opportunity to predict a huge variety of sporting and entertainment events. If the Gold Cup final is played in the Estadio Azteca, many fans are likely to predict a Mexican victory, which would be reflected in the contract value offered in this market.

While we wait for the details to be confirmed, it’s a good moment to remember that the Mexican team has dominated the Gold Cup since it was rebranded in 1991. With ten titles from 18 appearances, local fans will be hoping that home advantage makes 2027 another chance to celebrate.