Mexico was the first country to host the FIFA World Cup twice.
Mexico originally hosted the tournament in 1970, when Brazil won the title by defeating Italy in the final. It became the first repeat host after being selected for the 1986 World Cup, following Colombia’s withdrawal because it could not meet the competition’s financial and infrastructure requirements.
The 1986 tournament was played in Mexico from 31 May to 29 June. Argentina won the championship, beating West Germany 3–2 in the final at Mexico City’s Estadio Azteca. Diego Maradona was the tournament’s defining player, contributing five goals and five assists.
A common mix-up is to name Brazil, Italy, or Germany because each later hosted the World Cup twice. Brazil hosted in 1950 and 2014, Italy in 1934 and 1990, and Germany in 1974 and 2006. Mexico’s 1986 selection came first, making it the pioneer among repeat hosts.