Mexico cancels plan to shorten school year for 2026 World Cup

The government reversed a proposal to end the academic year 40 days early, citing backlash from parents, local authorities, and education groups. The original schedule, ending 15 July, was restored.

By Conor McAuley1 min read

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Mexico's Secretariat of Public Education reversed a proposal to end the academic year on 5 June, following criticism from parents, local authorities, and education groups. The decision to maintain the original calendar was confirmed after a meeting convened by President Claudia Sheinbaum.

The proposed shortening had been announced by Education Secretary Mario Delgado, who cited a heat wave as a factor. The plan was rejected by two states and opposed by the think tank Mexico Evalua, which warned of reduced learning time.

The original academic year was to end on 15 July, with classes resuming on 31 August. President Sheinbaum confirmed that the vacation period would remain at six weeks. Public works for the World Cup, including upgrades to the Azteca stadium and Mexico City International Airport, were to proceed as planned.