Chac mool (1986) by Annie LeibovitzFundación Televisa Collection and Archive
From the Olympics to the soccer team, sport is a vital part of Mexico's modern identity. But the country's sporting heritage is rooted in centuries of history, identity, and community. Keep clicking for a 10-step guide to the history of Mexican sports.
Photo 5 Ulama (2017-09) by Francisco Manuel Palma LagunasMinistry of Culture of the Government of Mexico
1. Ancient Mesoamerican games
Long before the modern Olympics, ancient Mesoamerican cultures had their own unique sports. These activities were often intertwined with religious ceremonies, and the players were believed to be connecting with the gods. The ancient sport "ballgame" is still played today!
Aztec stadium (1966) by Ruta de la AmistadPatronato Ruta de la Amistad A.C
2. Making football history
The world-famous Estadio Azteca, host to two World Cup finals, stands as a testament to Mexico's love of football. Designed by architects Pedro Ramírez Vázquez and Rafael Mijares Alcérreca, it was built in 1962 for the 1970 World Cup.
Enriqueta Basilio (1968-10-12) by IOCThe Olympic Museum
3. The Olympics
Mexico City hosted the 1968 Olympic Games. Here, Enriqueta Basilio made history as the first woman to carry the Olympic torch and light the cauldron, launching a new era for women in sport.
Charros Group (1940)Ministry of Culture of the Government of Mexico
4. Charrería: a national sport
Charrería, a sport involving complex maneuvers on horseback, has evolved into a cultural symbol of Mexico. It's even recognized by UNESCO as part of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Jalisco.
Padel (2023-10-29) by Alejandro Antonio Rodríguez TorresMinistry of Culture of the Government of Mexico
5. Pádel: a Mexican invention
Born in Mexico, pádel has become a global phenomenon, and is one of the fastest-growing sports in the world. It combines elements of tennis and squash for fast-paced and competitive fun.
La Fiesta de los Tomateros (2022) by Hugo HerreraSinaloa Institute of Culture
6. Baseball in Mexico
Baseball is one of Mexico's most popular sports. Some historical accounts suggest that the country's first baseball game took place during the war against the United States in 1847. Today, it is played across the country and incorporates festivities like Los Tomateros.
El Santo (2021) by Salomón HuertaSelf Help Graphics & Art
Rowera or Ariweta Race (1972-11) by Bob SchalkwijkMinistry of Culture of the Government of Mexico
8. Running with the mountains
The Tarahumara people call themselves Rarámuri, a name that speaks to their strength and agility. The word combines "rara" (foot) and "muri" (to run), highlighting their prowess as runners. Running is part of Mexico's cultural DNA.
Mixtec ball, living sport (2023-06-28) by Fernando Moisés Hernández CórdobaSecretaría de las Culturas y Artes de Oaxaca
9. Mixteca Ball: a living tradition
Mixteca Ball, a game where a ball must be launched through wall-mounted rings in a painted court, has origins that date back to pre-Hispanic times. It is popular in Oaxaca, Guerrero, Puebla, Mexico City, and across the border in the US cities of Fresno and Los Angeles
Felipe "Tibio" Muñoz (1968)Ministry of Culture of the Government of Mexico
10. Swimming triumphs
It wasn't until the 1968 Mexico City Olympics that Mexico won its first swimming medals. Felipe Muñoz's gold and María Teresa Ramírez's bronze marked a turning point for Mexican athletes on the world stage.
Yaxunah Amazons in Yaxcabá, Yucatan (2023-10-23) by Ricardo AraujoMinistry of Culture of the Government of Mexico
Mexican sports showcase years of history, culture, and tradition. Athletes today are continuing to celebrate the legacy of their sports and what it means to them. Scroll down to explore more.
