Mexican authorities are facing criticism after announcing plans to end the school year more than a month early ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Education Secretary Mario Delgado said classes would end on June 5 instead of late June, citing extreme heat conditions affecting several regions and preparations tied to the World Cup. Mexico is co-hosting the tournament alongside the United States and Canada.
“We’re going to end the school year on June 5 because many states are already experiencing high temperatures, and there’s also the issue of the World Cup,” Delgado said during an event in Sonora.
The World Cup begins on June 11, with Mexico scheduled to play South Africa in Mexico City.
President Claudia Sheinbaum later clarified that the plan remains under discussion and no final school calendar has been approved.
“There is no definitive calendar yet,” she said. “It’s important that the children don’t miss classes either.”
The proposal has triggered concern among parents, educators, and business groups. Many families worry they will face additional childcare expenses during a longer summer holiday.
Policy group Mexico Evalua warned that shortening the academic year could worsen educational inequality and reduce learning time for over 23 million students.
Business association Coparmex also criticized the proposal, calling it rushed and disruptive to working families.
Meanwhile, officials in Jalisco state said schools there would remain open until June 30 as originally planned, except during the four days Guadalajara hosts World Cup matches.
