DiDi Pushes to Operate at Mexican Airports for 2026 World Cup

DiDi is urging the Mexican federal government and airport authorities to establish a regulatory framework allowing its vehicles to operate within airport terminals in cities hosting the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The move seeks to meet the expected surge in transportation demand during the tournament, which will take place across Mexico, the United States, and Canada.

“The World Cup is a great opportunity to invite the government to create modern regulations that transparently allow platforms to operate freely at airports,” said Juan Panamá, CEO, DiDi Latin America. He emphasized that mobility apps will play a major role during the event.

Currently, airport access in Mexico is largely limited to licensed taxi services, creating tension between traditional operators and app-based mobility platforms. DiDi argues that airport inclusion would increase competition and reduce passenger wait times.

The company sees the World Cup as an opportunity to improve traveler experience and generate income for thousands of drivers and delivery partners nationwide. “We are working to create an accessible platform and ensure drivers and partners benefit from this tourism opportunity,” Panamá said.

In host states—Mexico City, Jalisco, and Nuevo Leon—DiDi has reported measurable economic contributions. Siegfried Eisenmenger, DiDi’s Latin America Public Policy Director, highlighted the company’s impact on state GDP: 0.48% in Jalisco, 0.64% in Nuevo León, and 0.75% in Mexico City.

Overall, DiDi estimates its total contribution to Mexico’s economy at MX$118 billion, or 0.47% of national GDP. The company also reports a social impact value of roughly MX$216 billion (0.86% of GDP), equivalent to providing food baskets for 91 million people.