Estadio Akron
C.D. Guadalajara announced plans for a new stadium in February 2004. The club intended to leave the old Estadio Jalisco behind. Construction did not begin until May 2007, three years after the initial announcement. Financial problems and other issues caused significant delays during this period. The project stalled multiple times before finally reaching completion. By July 2010, the venue was ready enough to host its first major international event.
The facility opened as the Estadio Omnilife when it hosted its inaugural match against Manchester United on the 30th of July 2010. Javier Chicharito Hernández scored the first goal at the stadium during that friendly game. In December 2017, the name changed from Estadio Omnilife to Estadio Akron. This shift followed a sponsorship deal signed with a car lubricants firm. The agreement lasted for ten years. The stadium is now known by the Akron brand while remaining home to C.D. Guadalajara.
Critics raised concerns about the artificial field used during early matches. Notable players voiced strong disapproval of the playing surface quality. The controversy grew loud enough to force a decision in May 2012. Officials announced plans to replace the artificial turf with natural grass. The replacement work finished by July 2012. This change addressed the complaints from athletes who had previously criticized the synthetic material.
The stadium hosted eight matches during the 2011 FIFA U-17 World Cup. A semifinal between Uruguay and Brazil took place within these fixtures. It also served as the venue for opening and closing ceremonies of the 2011 Pan American Games. All football tournament matches for both men and women were played there. The facility has since become a key location for major regional competitions in Mexico.
High-profile musical acts have performed at the venue in recent years. The Weeknd appeared on the 25th of October 2023 during his After Hours til Dawn Tour. Shakira scheduled performances for 16 and the 17th of March 2025 under her Las Mujeres Ya No Lloran World Tour. These events demonstrate the stadium's versatility beyond football matches. Boxing fans also attended the Canelo Álvarez vs. John Ryder fight in 2023.
Estadio Akron will host matches during the 2026 FIFA World Cup group stage. Four games are scheduled to take place inside the venue. One match includes Mexico's second game of the tournament. The stadium will temporarily be renamed Estadio Guadalajara to comply with FIFA policy on corporate names. It will also host Pathway 1 of the inter-confederation play-offs between March and June 2026.
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Common questions
When did C.D. Guadalajara announce plans for the new stadium?
C.D. Guadalajara announced plans for a new stadium in February 2004.
What was the original name of Estadio Akron when it opened?
The facility opened as the Estadio Omnilife when it hosted its inaugural match against Manchester United on the 30th of July 2010.
Why did officials replace the artificial turf at Estadio Akron?
Officials announced plans to replace the artificial turf with natural grass after notable players voiced strong disapproval of the playing surface quality and controversy grew loud enough to force a decision in May 2012.
Which major international events took place at Estadio Akron during 2011?
The stadium hosted eight matches during the 2011 FIFA U-17 World Cup and served as the venue for opening and closing ceremonies of the 2011 Pan American Games.
Who performed at Estadio Akron on the 25th of October 2023?
The Weeknd appeared on the 25th of October 2023 during his After Hours til Dawn Tour.