Cristiano Ronaldo and co.’s Mexican World Cup plans

World Cup 2026 is already taking shape off the field, and one of the national teams beginning to set its logistical plan in motion is Portugal. With Cristiano Ronaldo as its figurehead and a group-stage schedule based entirely in the United States, the Portuguese side is considering establishing its tournament base camp in Mexico - specifically, in the Riviera Maya.

Why could Portugal choose the Riviera Maya?

According to reporting from journalist Alejandro de la Rosa, Portugal has made significant progress toward securing accommodations in Playa del Carmen for the duration of the World Cup, even though the team’s three group-stage games will all take place on U.S. soil. The decision is tied to a mix of strategic geography, strong air connectivity, and top-tier infrastructure.

Portugal was drawn into Group K alongside Colombia, Uzbekistan, and the winner of an intercontinental playoff. Its matches will be played in Houston and Miami, two host cities relatively close to Mexico’s Caribbean coast.

From the Riviera Maya, flights to Houston run roughly two and a half hours, while the trip to Miami takes about an hour and a half. That proximity would allow Portugal to cut down on travel time, reduce physical fatigue, and maintain a stable training routine - all key priorities for coaching staffs during short, high‑intensity tournaments.

Where exactly might Portugal stay?

The leading candidate to host Portugal is Fairmont Mayakoba, one of Mexico’s most exclusive resorts. Set among mangroves, natural canals, and low jungle, the property offers complete privacy, generous space, and low‑profile logistics - ideal conditions for national teams that draw heavy media attention.

The Fairmont Mayakoba was designed as a horizontal resort, with standalone villas spread throughout a natural landscape that ensures total seclusion for guests. This layout is especially appealing for delegations seeking peace, security, and full control of their surroundings during a high‑stakes competition.

Among its standout facilities are five swimming pools, a private beach club, the Willow Stream Spa inspired by Mayan rituals, and El Camaleón Golf Course, which has previously hosted the PGA Tour. The entire complex is connected by navigable canals and internal pathways, helping teams avoid large crowds and maintain a discreet operational profile.

Room options range from garden‑surrounded suites to beachfront villas with direct access to the sand. During regular season, rates typically range from $420 to $650 per night, while premium villas can exceed $2,000 per night during peak season.

In the coming months, more national federations are expected to finalize their World Cup base camps - and once again, Mexico is emerging as a priority destination for several of the world’s top teams.

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