After Wave of Criticism: Mexican Government Reverses Decision to Shorten School Year Due to 2026 World Cup

The Mexican government has announced the cancellation of its decision to shorten the school year, a measure initially linked to the 2026 World Cup. This reversal comes after angry reactions from parents, research centers, and local authorities.

Previously, Education Minister Mario Delgado had announced that the school year would end approximately 40 days earlier than scheduled, on June 5, citing a heatwave as the reason.

However, a meeting convened by President Claudia Sheinbaum, involving education sector officials and government departments, concluded with the decision to retract the earlier announcement after considering various opinions and available options.

Under the new resolution, the school year will now proceed as normal, concluding on July 15. This will be followed by a six-week summer vacation extending until August 31.

It was also decided that classes in Jalisco state will be suspended for only four days, coinciding with Guadalajara hosting World Cup matches. Meanwhile, Nuevo León state, home to Monterrey, will adhere to its original academic calendar without any changes.

President Sheinbaum affirmed that authorities would provide the necessary security conditions to ensure the event's success, in addition to completing infrastructure projects related to the World Cup.