Ticket prices for the upcoming friendly match between Mexico and Portugal at the Estadio Banorte on March 28 have fallen sharply following confirmation that Cristiano Ronaldo is undergoing treatment for a hamstring injury in Madrid, according to reports from multiple sources.
The injury, sustained during Al-Nassr’s match on February 28, initially diagnosed as a grade 1 hamstring strain, is now considered potentially more serious, Al-Nassr manager Jorge Jesus stated, prompting Ronaldo’s trip to Spain for specialized care. This development has cast significant doubt on his participation in the match, a key event marking the reopening of the renovated Estadio Banorte, formerly known as the Estadio Azteca, and a preparatory game for both nations ahead of the 2026 World Cup.
Prior to the injury news, resale tickets were reportedly fetching around 10,000 Mexican pesos. However, as of March 7, listings have dropped to approximately 4,000 pesos, and in some cases even lower, reflecting a diminished demand driven by Ronaldo’s uncertain status. The price decline underscores the significant draw of the Portuguese captain, who has never previously played a match in Mexico.
The match held particular appeal for fans eager to witness Ronaldo’s appearance at the iconic Estadio Banorte, a venue set to grow the first stadium in history to host three FIFA World Cup tournaments in 2026. The prospect of seeing the five-time Ballon d’Or winner, Portugal’s all-time leading scorer and most capped player, added a unique allure to the friendly.
Portugal, already qualified for the 2026 World Cup after topping Group F in qualifying, views the match against Mexico and a subsequent game against the United States on March 31 in Atlanta as crucial preparation for the tournament. Manager Roberto Martinez has emphasized the importance of these games in finalizing his 26-man World Cup roster, stating that the matches are “essential” for his preparations.
While the match will proceed with or without Ronaldo, the uncertainty surrounding his availability has altered the calculus for many potential attendees. The shift in ticket prices demonstrates how heavily the perceived value of an event can be tied to the participation of a specific athlete.
Organizers now face the prospect of potentially lower revenue from ticket sales, although reduced prices could also increase accessibility for local fans. As of March 8, neither the Mexican Football Federation nor the Portuguese Football Federation have released further updates on Ronaldo’s condition or his potential availability for the March 28 match.
