With the world’s biggest sporting event set to arrive next summer, the Government of Mexico City and the International Transport Workers’ Federation (ITF) have signed a landmark cooperation agenda to protect and promote the rights of transport workers throughout the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
The agreement – brokered between Mexico City’s Ministry of Labor and Employment Promotion, the Ministry of Tourism and the ITF in coordination with the ITF-affiliated unions in Mexico – sets out a joint work plan to ensure fair treatment and decent work across the capital’s vital transport, tourism and service sectors during the tournament.
Raising the bar for decent work
All parties have committed to upholding Mexico’s Federal Labor Law and Mexico City’s legal framework, while fostering democratic and fair labour relations through social dialogue between employers and workers. This collaboration will also help establish high service standards for visitors of the facilities and spaces during the World Cup.
The goal: to create safe, fair and decent working conditions for everyone, from bus and metro drivers to hospitality staff, whether in paid roles or as volunteers.
Special emphasis will be placed on providing opportunities for vulnerable groups, ensuring that the World Cup becomes not only a celebration of football but also a driver of social and economic inclusion.
"Mexico City expects to welcome around eight million visitors during the World Cup next year,” said Stephen Cotton, General Secretary of the ITF. “This event is a unique opportunity to showcase Mexico’s culture, traditions and potential to the world. And the work agenda ensures that the World Cup leaves a lasting legacy for transport workers – one rooted in dignity and decent work."
The agreement also recognises the critical role of transport workers in delivering a world-class tournament experience. “Transport workers play a crucial role in events that require complex transport logistics for international visitors,” noted Edgar Díaz, ITF Regional Secretary for Latin America. “Through the ITF and our affiliated unions in Mexico, we have secured this agreement to safeguard the human and labour rights of those workers throughout the World Cup. We welcome the Government of Mexico City’s commitment to stand with us in ensuring fair treatment, dignity and safe conditions for every worker who keeps the city moving during this historic event.”
Commitment to collaboration
As part of the agreement, the government, employers and workers will maintain open lines of communication to address workforce needs, anticipate challenges and ensure the labour market remains stable throughout the event.
“With this partnership, Mexico City is setting the tone for a World Cup where the excitement on the pitch is matched by respect, fairness and opportunity off it, ensuring that the tournament’s legacy benefits the workers who keep the city moving,” added Cotton.
