Magic, Madness And Maradona: The Enduring Legend Of Mexico ’86

Another key factor was the importance of Mexico as host. The country had already staged a successful World Cup in 1970, and in 1986 it delivered again — this time under unique circumstances after stepping in to replace Colombia. Mexico’s altitude, heat and passionate crowds created a distinctive atmosphere that influenced matches and added to the spectacle. Stadiums like the Estadio Azteca became iconic backdrops, filled with color that translated well onto TV screens worldwide.

Indeed, television itself played a crucial role in shaping the tournament’s legacy. By 1986, advances in broadcasting meant that the World Cup reached a truly global audience with improved production quality.

The tournament benefited from this expanding media landscape, helping to cement its place in popular culture. The images of Maradona weaving through defenders or celebrating in front of packed stands were seen by millions worldwide, embedding the tournament in collective memory in a way earlier editions could not match.

Politics also played a role. The Argentina-England quarterfinal, for instance, carried political undertones following the Falklands War, adding an extra layer of tension and meaning. Meanwhile, smaller soccer nations made their mark (like Belgium and Morocco), contributing to the sense that anything could happen. This unpredictability — combined with high-quality play — gave the 1986 World Cup a storytelling depth that continues to resonate.

Four decades later, the 1986 World Cup endures not just because of nostalgia, but because it represents a kind of ideal. It had a transcendent star at his peak, a variety of great teams playing great soccer, dramatic storylines and a global audience ready to embrace it all.

In that sense, 1986 is more than just a great World Cup — it is a reference point. Every tournament since has been measured, in some way, against the magic of Mexico ’86.

Clemente Lisi is the author of "The World Cup: A History of the Planet’s Biggest Sporting Event, 2026 Edition."

This article was originally published on Forbes.com