Mexico Attempts to Break World Record for Largest Human Wave Ahead of World Cup Kick-off

(CNA, Mexico City, June 6, Comprehensive Foreign Report) With the 2026 FIFA World Cup, co-hosted by Mexico, set to kick off on the 11th, tens of thousands of people flocked to a main avenue in the capital, Mexico City, today to challenge the Guinness World Record for the largest human wave.

According to AFP and Reuters, the human wave is a way for fans in the stands to cheer on their team, but its origins are disputed. One theory suggests it became popular at the 1986 World Cup in Mexico, exactly 40 years ago, and later spread worldwide. However, some American fans argue that early versions of the wave actually originated in the United States.

Several human wave Guinness World Records have been officially certified: the largest participation was 157,574 people, set by the United States in August 2008; the longest human wave team was formed by 8,453 people in Portugal in 2007; and the longest duration record was set by Japan in 2015, lasting 17 minutes and 14 seconds.

Regardless, a large crowd responded to the event's call this morning, donning the Mexican national football team's jerseys and waving the country's flag while dancing to loud music.

The crowd stretched for 2 kilometers along Paseo de la Reforma, a wide main avenue in Mexico City, and Sally Aviles, standing in the front row, was confident about breaking the record. "I say we can definitely break the record. There are so many people here, we can definitely do it!" said the 31-year-old.

The event's MC shouted through a microphone: "Attention! We bend our knees, bend down, then quickly stand up straight, raising our hands high!" Following the command, row after row of people relayed the action, causing the entire avenue to ripple like ocean waves.

"I couldn't miss the opportunity to participate in this wonderful event, to show the world the real Mexico: our atmosphere, our passion, unity, and peace," said 55-year-old Gloria Fragoso.

Travelers from abroad also thoroughly soaked up the atmosphere. Vivia Shivers, a tourist who arrived in Mexico City early for the World Cup, said the experience was extraordinary. "This is a special place, to contribute a little to the World Cup, and it feels great to be a part of it."

The current World Cup is co-hosted by the United States, Mexico, and Canada. For the first time, it has been expanded to 48 participating teams, with the number of matches increasing from the previous 64 to 104, lasting until July 19.