Estadio Azteca owners lost an estimated $47M on FIFA’s most profitable World Cup ever

Estadio Azteca, owned by Grupo Ollamani, suffered an estimated loss of US $47.4 million due to FIFA's most profitable World Cup, according to a financial report. The loss was primarily attributed to the cost of hosting five World Cup matches and organizing tournament-related activities in Mexico City. The company paid FIFA approximately US $58.3 million to secure the use of premium seats and box seats, which was a result of a legal dispute over their ownership.

Although the negative financial impact did not reflect the company's regular operations, it was caused by extraordinary circumstances related to the World Cup. Grupo Ollamani also reported an additional financial impact of US $14.9 million in July when Estadio Azteca hosted World Cup matches. Despite the losses for the stadium owners, FIFA emerged as the biggest financial winner, generating a record US $15 billion in revenue, far surpassing its initial forecast of US $11 billion.

This revenue was generated through various sources, including licensing, broadcasting, and hospitality rights, as well as sponsorships and ticket sales. The World Cup did not generate the expected economic impact, particularly for the hospitality sector.