Everything We Know So Far

Expected to coincide with the 2026 World Cup, Netflix Mexico is preparing a satirical counter-programming strike with México 86. Produced by and starring Diego Luna, this period drama chronicles the chaotic true story of how Mexico became the World Cup host. Here is everything we know about the movie coming to Netflix in 2026 as part of the Netflix Mexico slate. 

México 86 is directed by Gabriel Ripstein, known for 600 Miles and his work on Narcos. The script was co-written by Ripstein and Daniel Krauze (Luis Miguel: The Series).

The project is a major collaboration between Gaumont USA and Netflix. It was officially unveiled as part of Netflix’s massive investment in local cinema in the country (Mexican Cinema Day) initiative, which has previously brought us hits like Roma and Bardo. The film is produced by Christian Gabela, Nicolas Atlan, and Sidonie Dumas for Gaumont USA.

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What is the plot of México 86?

Steeped in satire and dark humor, the film tells the stranger-than-fiction true story of how Mexico ended up hosting the chaotic 1986 FIFA World Cup against all odds.

The 1986 World Cup was originally awarded to Colombia, however, due to economic instability and government concerns, Colombia resigned as host in 1982. This triggered a frantic scramble by FIFA to find a replacement, with the United States and Canada also vying for the spot. The film tracks the “ingenuity” (read: political maneuvering and improvisation) that allowed Mexico to secure the bid and become the first nation to host the tournament twice.

The official synopsis for the new movie is as follows:

“México 86 chronicles the outrageous gamble that led Mexico to boldly secure the hosting rights for the 1986 World Cup, a feat made possible only through pure Mexican ingenuity.”

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Who is in the cast?

The film features a powerhouse cast of Mexican talent:

• Diego Luna (Andor, Netflix’s Narcos: Mexico) stars in the lead role as Martín de la Torre and also serves as Executive Producer.
• Karla Souza (How to Get Away with Murder, La Caída) as Susana Gómez-Mont
• Daniel Giménez Cacho (Netflix’s Bardo, Zama, Arráncame la vida) as Emilo Azcárraga
• Davor Tomic (97 Minutes, Netflix’s Faraway) as Bora Milutinovic
• Álvaro Guerrero (Amores Perros) as Guillermo Cañedo

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When will México 86 be released?

Netflix has officially confirmed a 2026 release window for México 86, beyond confirming it as part of its slate for the year. 

While an exact date hasn’t been set, the timing is strategic. With Mexico, the USA, and Canada jointly hosting the 2026 FIFA World Cup starting in June 2026, we expect this film to drop in Q1 or Q2 of 2026 to ride the wave of football anticipation.

We will keep you updated as soon as the first trailer drops.

 

Are you excited to see Diego Luna in México 86? Let us know in the comments below! You can add the movie to your Netflix Queue using the direct link here.