An 81-year-old German football enthusiast tragically died outside the Azteca Stadium in Mexico City before the 2026 World Cup opening match after suffering a heart attack. The elderly supporter collapsed and went into cardiac arrest just hours before co-hosts Mexico defeated South Africa 2-0.
Disturbing footage captured the man lying on the ground as a team of paramedics surrounded him, performing resuscitation efforts. Red Cross personnel, Civil Protection officers, and other emergency staff worked tirelessly, administering CPR in a desperate attempt to save his life. The incident occurred at the iconic Azteca Stadium as thousands of fans gathered for the opening ceremony.
Despite immediate on-site medical attention, the German national was quickly transported by ambulance to a specialist cardiology hospital. He was later declared dead, as reported by NeedToKnow. The unfortunate event cast a somber tone over the buildup to the inaugural night of the expanded 48-team tournament.
Authorities confirmed that emergency protocols were promptly activated, with medical teams already stationed for the high-profile event. No additional details regarding his identity or specific medical history have been disclosed by authorities. The 81-year-old was an international fan who had traveled to witness the historic occasion in the Mexican capital.
The match proceeded as scheduled, kicking off at 8pm local time. England's first Group L match against Croatia is set to take place next Wednesday (June 17). Meanwhile, the 2026 World Cup got underway on Thursday, and supporters were left raging with ITV's coverage of the tournament's opening night.
The biggest competition in sport started from a fervent Azteca Stadium, where co-hosts Mexico beat South Africa 2-0. Goals from Julian Quinones and Raul Jimenez secured Javier Aguirre's side all three points, but the drama wasn't over as South Africa finished with nine men, while Mexico were reduced to 10 in the closing moments. Yaya Sithole, Themba Zwane, and Cesar Montes were all sent off.
The usual ITV pundits Gary Neville, Ian Wright, and Roy Keane analyzed the match, but as part of a twist for the World Cup, the broadcaster included a segment with former Man v Food host Adam Richman. Football fanatic Richman was a surprise guest, but fans were unimpressed and demanded a reshuffle. Posting on X, @themightyi21 said: "ITV need to ditch this Adam Richman thing ASAP. It's cringe." @HarryFan4Life_ wrote: "ITV please get rid of that American bloke and the woman with him. They're awful. #Worldcup #ITVworldcup."
