Many local matches are shown on free-to-view broadcast channels, which include those of Televisa, TV Azteca and Imagen TV. But in recent years, a growing number of games are only available on cable or satellite TV systems—primarily Fox and ESPN.  Televisa also shows selected games only on its cable or streaming channel.

Likewise, if you want to watch teams like Real Madrid, Barcelona or Manchester United —to name a few— you’ll need to have a cable or satellite television subscription.

Mexico’s two annual soccer tournaments

The Mexican professional league has several divisions, although the focus is almost entirely on the first division, officially known as Liga MX, which currently has 18 teams.  As in some South American countries, Mexico holds two championships a year:

• Apertura or opening competition that runs from August to December; and
• Clausura or closing which starts in January and ends in May.

Each tournament is decided by playoffs. The top four finishers enter the quarter finals directly, while the fifth to 12th teams play off in a single match  to determine the other four spots.

The fifth placed team plays the 12th, the sixth plays the 11th, and so on, with the higher-placed team having the home ground advantage.  That determines liguilla or little league, with quarter finals, semi-finals, and a final played over two matches—each team playing one of the games at home. game is drawn, it goes straight to a penalty shootout.

In the quarters and semis, the highest placed teams are matched with the lowest finishers in the regular season, i.e., 1-vs-8, 2-vs-7, 3-vs-6 and 4-vs-5.

Methods for breaking a tie in each of the rounds have varied over the years with changes made every once in a while depending, it would appear, on the mood of soccer authorities.

At present, the tie-breaking criterion for the quarter and semifinals is  the team that finished higher in the league. This rule is set aside in the final, when a tie after two matches leads to extra time, and then a series of penalty kicks.

The tension and excitement tends to increase as the playoffs approach the final rounds of each tournament during December and May, respectively.

Promotion and relegation on hold

As in some other countries, Mexico refers to its lower divisions somewhat euphemistically—the second division here was known as Ascenso, meaning ascent or promotion.

But because of financial difficulties faced by Ascenso teams, exacerbated by the Coronavirus event, the Mexican professional soccer league decided in April 2020 to cancel promotion and relegation to and from the first division for at least five seasons. The Ascenso league became the Expansión league. A euphemism for the euphemism.

There has been talk of resuming promotion and relegation beginning in 2024. Relegation would be determined by the top flight teams’ performance over four tournaments—two years, which would still help the bigger teams to avoid relegation after a “freak” bad season.

Some of Mexico’s popular soccer teams

Here’s a summary of the most popular professional soccer teams in Mexico:

While these teams mentioned above are probably the best known, Mexico’s league is quite competitive and it isn’t that unusual for others to surprise.  Tijuana, León, and Querétaro have all either won a championship or come fairly close to it.  Others are Puebla and Atlas—another team from Guadalajara.

A final note about the Spanish word ‘Futbol’

In South America football is pronounced futbol and spelled with an accent on the “u” — fútbol.  In Mexico (and Central America) it’s pronounced futbol and therefore has no accent.  Both are correct, says the Spanish Royal Academy.

Tables, fixtures, and results for the Mexican league can be found online at: https://ligamx.net

Learn more about sports and leisure in Mexico

Connect to more articles for insights and sports and other leisure pastimes.

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At one time, the stadium was also home to four Mexico City teams, although two (Necaxa and Atlante) moved to other cities, and a third (Cruz Azul) has its own stadium elsewhere in the capital.  That leaves just America, nicknamed las Aguilas — the Eagles — playing its home games there.

There are only two kinds of soccer fans in Mexico – those who support America and those who cheer on whoever is playing against America, regardless of which their favorite team is.

Among reasons given for hating America (apart from the head-scratching, “because it’s owned by Televisa,” the TV company), are that referees favor America in their decisions on the field. In years past, it was also claimed that other teams owned by Televisa let America win their games. This was frequently shown on the field to be nonsense, and now the point is moot, anyway, as Televisa no longer owns other first-division teams.

Among the liberal classes, the team of choice is often Pumas of the National Autonomous University of Mexico (UNAM), who incidentally are having a good season in 2018. Admitting to one of these that you support America can be met with eyebrows raised in a look of incredulity, as much as to say, “really, you ought to know better.” They suppose you must also watch soap operas.

Anyway, going to the Aztec Stadium is an exhilarating experience, particularly for a big match when there are likely to be anything from 60,000 to 80,000 spectators.

Some words of practical advice. Get tickets before you go to the stadium, unless you plan to be there with plenty of time in hand. If you just show up an hour or so before a game, you will only be able to get tickets from touts for at least 50% more than the list price for regular matches, and double or more if it’s a “clásico,” such as America–Guadalajara or America–Pumas. Buying from touts also risks being sold fake tickets which are checked and refused at the entry gate.  Lines at the stadium’s box office — taquilla — are long, ticket availability limited, and service painfully slow, even for games with relatively few spectators, so you are quite likely to miss the first part of the match. Ticketmaster with its additional service charge is probably the best option for buying tickets.

The easiest way is to look up the event online at Ticketmaster, which tends to handle sales for the usual commission to most events. A number of store chains have Ticketmaster booths.

This is fine for a regular season game, a play, a ballet at Bellas Artes, or even a relatively little known group or singer.

But since the rock stars of old — old rock stars — discovered that Mexico is a profitable place to perform, the number of “big” concerts has increased. Mexican fans are willing, and frequently do, pay higher prices for their tickets than their counterparts in the U.S. or the U.K. Literally higher, not purchasing-power-parity higher.

For blockbuster events, such as soccer finals, big time artists, visiting theater or dance troupes, and Broadway productions, the normal channels can be impossible unless you happen to have a particularly fast Internet connection and can fast-type credit card details, or have a whole day to spend lining-up at the venue when ticket sales are announced.

This is where the ubiquitous revendedores – ticket touts – come in.

No one seems to know when and where they get hold of the tickets that no one else could find either at Ticketmaster or at the box office, but they do, and the price they charge can go up exponentially for certain events, particularly concerts.

If you decide to get tickets through this channel, and it may be the last resort, it’s better to do it with the help of a regular concert goer, someone who knows the ropes and may even have the mobile number of a reliable revendedor.

The higher prices commanded by the touts can be attributed to supply and demand, but the resale of tickets under false pretenses, for example lying about what part of the stadium or hall they are in, isn’t beyond some of these people.

For particularly popular concerts where even the regular revendedores say they can’t get tickets, there will be others offering counterfeit tickets, known in the trade as chocolates, which will be found-out at the gate. One thing to watch for here: if more ticket touts are asking if you have spare tickets to sell than offering to sell you tickets, chances are that they are genuinely sold out, so beware.

Every so often, public outrage will be such that authorities will announce a crackdown, a couple of touts will be “arrested” and their tickets recovered, but as surely as it rains in the rainy season, they will be back the next week.

The 2018 World Cup played in Russia started out auspiciously for Mexico with a surprise 1-0 win against Germany and, after a 2-1 defeat of South Korea, Mexico appeared set to win the toughest group in the tournament.

Alas! As predisposed as Mexico is to surprise its fans with unexpected victories, the national team is equally prone to turning-in a dreadful performance. This time it was in the shape of a 3-0 loss to Sweden, which meant the team scraped through with Germany’s unexpected 2-0 loss to the South Koreans: a result which put the defending champions out of the tournament and left Mexico in second place to face none other than five-time World Cup champions Brazil on Monday July 2 in knockout Round of 16.

At first blush, that sounded like the end of the road and Mexico’s chances of reaching the quarter finals for the first time since 1986—the last year it hosted the tournament.  By the time the two teams met again in Russia, Mexico and Brazil had played each other 40 times in total, with Brazil winning 23 games, Mexico 10, and seven match draws. Monday’s match was their fifth meeting in World Cups, and the history wasn’t too encouraging for Mexico: three losses and a draw, with Brazil scoring 11 goals and Mexico none.  In other words, Mexico had never scored against Brazil in a World Cup.

No surprise then that Brazil’s odds at the bookmakers were 1/2 to beat Mexico, meaning the South American giants were given a 67% chance of winning.  Mexico’s odds at kick-off were trading at around 6/1 which translates into a 14% chance of winning.

The great thing about sports, and soccer especially, is that past performances don’t determine the outcome of a game. There’s always hope. After all, Mexico’s record against Germany in World Cups before the present tournament was two losses and one draw (which Mexico lost on penalties), and it included a 6-0 drubbing in 1978.

In the event, Mexico delivered a solid performance in the first half of the game against Brazil and missed a serendipitous opening which would have given the team a crucial lead at the beginning of the second half.  Brazil immediately took back the initiative and scored, taking the lead 1-0 in the 51^st minute of the game.  With 88 minutes played, the Brazilian team scored again, and even with 6 minutes of injury time added, Mexico were unable to pull a goal back, ending the team’s participation in this tournament, and leaving Mexico with the job of scoring a World Cup goal against Brazil to some future match.

For those who don’t follow soccer but were wondering, the U.S. team failed to qualify for the Russia World Cup when it lost its final qualifying game against Trinidad and Tobago last year.

Every year, thousands of people head to Mexico to enjoy their passion for one of the world’s most popular sports: fishing.

With over 6,00 miles (10,000 km) of coastline, water sports are one of Mexico’s forte experiences; there are a handful of locations in Mexico that are known for world-class fishing opportunities—we’ll point you in their direction in this guide.

Before that, it’s worth arming yourself with a few tips about sports fishing in Mexico—especially if you’re new to the sport or want to see what it’s all about on your next vacation to Mexico.

Sports Fishing in Mexico

When you’re planning your next vacation in Mexico, consider taking a sports fishing trip, especially if you haven’t been on one before.

Sports fishing is fun and exhilarating; it’s a great day out on the water and sets you up perfectly for a great evening back at the bar, talking about your experiences (and with luck – catches! – or if not “the one that got away!”) with friends and enjoying a well deserved rest over beers, cocktails and delicious Mexican food after a long, memorable day!

Mexico’s deep sea fishing is known and revered the world over by experienced fishermen who come here regularly to take part. But deep sea fishing is just one type of sports fishing you can enjoy.

For people who don’t want to go out on a boat; surf fishing and fly fishing are viable alternatives here too—cast your line from the beach and see what you can catch. This is an especially popular pastime early in the mornings.

For the most fun, take a charter boat and go out to sea to find your fish! The great thing about doing this in Mexico is that there are lots of operators locally set up to deliver these kind of sports fishing experiences—whether you’re an old pro, or someone brand new to it all —there’s someone who can help you enjoy the thrills and excitement of an off-shore fishing trip.

Fishing trips usually begin early in the morning and will last anywhere from early afternoon to early evening.

Good fishing charter companies have boats that have been specially adapted for sports fishing. The good ones will come fully equipped with a trained, knowledgeable and licensed crew, the right gear, and all the necessary accessories for the kind of fishing you plan to do.

Mexico has strict regulations about fishing: boats, crew and all members onboard—whether they are fishing or not—must be licensed; only one rod/line per person is permitted in the water and there are regulations about how many rods/reels per person may be taken onboard. Mollusks and crustaceans are off-limits, with some species— turtles for example—protected by law. There are also limits on how many fish can be caught and brought back, although there is no limit on catch and release.

Check with the operator to find out what facilities and services they provide and don’t be afraid to ask them about their crew, their permits, length of experience, facilities, safety and equipment—especially if this information isn’t forthcoming on their web site or over the telephone/email when you’re in touch with them. Good, established and experienced fishing operators will have no problem talking about these things.

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Tips for Planning Your Fishing Trip in Mexico

Reserve in advance – especially during the high season. Sports fishing in Mexico is really popular and if you travel down to Mexico in high season without having made a reservation, you might be disappointed. The best boats and the best crews always sell out ahead of time—so use Mexperience.com to find a sports fishing operator and book ahead for your travels!

What’s included – When you make a reservation, be sure to understand what is and is not included in the price you are being quoted. A day’s fishing trip package should include the boat, its captain and licensed crew; fishing equipment; bait & tackle; fishing license; food; drinks (soft drinks, water and beers); tips for the crew; ice; and tax. Some of these may not be included in the base price. Just ask and get everything clear from the beginning.

Travel Prepared – Don’t forget your camera! Most fish are released back into the wild (“catch & release”), but never before a proud picture moment—and you never know when you’re going to catch the big one! A day out on a boat will consume a lot of energy. When you’re out on the water, you’re exposed to the sun, wind and waves and it’s important that you go prepared. Be sure you can “cover up” from the sun: including a good hat and high factor sun cream/block. Lip balm may also be useful; some varieties include a sun block. Stay well hydrated at all times by drinking plenty of water; moderate your alcohol intake, especially if you start feeling a bit sun-stroked. See the Health and Safety Guide on Mexperience for more information about staying safe and healthy on your travels in Mexico!

Catch and Release – This policy is encouraged by most fishing boat charters that operate in Mexico, and some have strict policies regarding which type of fish can be retained and which type must be released. Catch and Release is the most sensible option for people going to Mexico to enjoy the thrills and experience of leisure sports fishing. If you want to taste a little something of what you caught, local restaurants may be able to oblige from catches made by fishing vessels early that same day.

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Top Fishing Locations in Mexico

Los Cabos, Baja

Without question Mexico’s largest and most popular sports fishing venue in Mexico is Los Cabos (Encompassing Cabo San Lucas, San Jose del Cabo and La Paz). Various world records are held in these parts for the largest fish caught. Marlin and sailfish are the most popular catches —estimated at over 50,000 every year. The overwhelming majority of these are photographed and let back into the wild.

To fish for blue and black marlin, you’ll need to head to Baja between June and December. Sailfish are prevalent between April and October. If you can’t get down here during these months but want to fish, there are other varieties- including the striped marlin – always there to oblige.

• Travel Guide to Cabo San Lucas
• Travel Guide to San Jose del Cabo
• Travel Guide to La Paz

Mazatlan

Besides being one of Mexico’s most popular coastal resorts (with Mexicans, especially), Mazatlan is also one of the country’s top fishing venues and has also been entitled with the honor of being “Billfish Capital of the World”.

Like Los Cabos, you can fish all year round in Mazatlan. Tuna, sea bass, dorado and grouper are abundant in these waters; sailfish are predominant May to November and striped marlin between December and April.

If you like Bass fishing, then Mazatlan is absolutely the best place in Mexico for it. There are also two nearby lakes (Comedero and El Salto) which are stocked with native & florida black bass. You can arrange package deals for trips out to the lakes for bass fishing.

• Travel Guide to Mazatlan

Puerto Vallarta

The ocean waters off the coast of Puerto Vallarta are some of Mexico’s most fertile.  PV is renown for its deep sea fishing expeditions which often depart from here.

Fishing is an all-year-long activity in Puerto Vallarta and you can expect to find ample stocks of sailfish, marlin, red snapper, bonito, shark and tuna to catch in these waters.

• Travel Guide to Puerto Vallarta

Costalegre

Just a short drive south from PV you’ll find the Costalegre; renown for it’s luxury hide-away hospitality, it also holds another little-known gem: the prime fishing havens off the villages of Barra de Navidad and Isla Navidad.

Here, you can heighten your senses and go in search of blue and black marlin, sail fish, dorado, roosterfish, and giant tuna all year long. There are also ample opportunities for on-shore and fly fishing from these waters.

Come back at the end of a fabulous day to the comfort and luxury of the Costalegre. If you want sports fishing with a touch of luxury, there’s only one place to head for: Costalegre.

Like PV, this area is highly regarded for its deep sea fishing and is referred to by some as the “Sailfish Capital of the World”.

• Travel Guide to Costalegre

Zihuatanejo

Almost equidistant between Manzanillo and Acapulco, the ancient fishing village of Zihuatanejo is another one of Mexico’s prime fishing locations. Several important fishing tournaments take place here each year and fishing enthusiasts consider it to be one of Mexico’s best locations—some even argue that it IS the best.

Although experienced fishermen have been paying pilgrimage to these waters for decades, it’s only in recent years that its reputation has become more widely recognized.  Fish here for marlin, sailfish, yellow fin tuna, roosterfish, dorado and wahoo.

• Travel Guide to Zihuatanejo

Acapulco

Year-round fishing is available in the ever-popular sea port and coastal resort of Acapulco;striped marlin, pompano, bonito, red snapper and tuna are the main catches in these waters and there are frequent trips daily from the docks just across the way from the city’s main square.

• Travel Guide to Acapulco

Cancun / Cozumel / Playa del Carmen

Mexico’s most popular—and most visited—resort of Cancun and the Island just across from it—Cozumel—are also a popular sports fishing locations.

Like Puerto Vallarta, deep sea fishing is good here, with lagoon fishing also available.

Between March and May, you can travel out to catch sailfish; during April and May you find blue fin tuna and white marlin.

• Travel Guide to Cancun
• Travel Guide to Cozumel
• Travel Guide to Playa del Carmen

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Fishing Tour Operators in Mexico

Every main coastal resort and beach-side destination in Mexico will have a selection of Fishing operators who can help you to go fishing in Mexico.

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