World Cup stickers traded en masse in Mexico City as part of world record attempt

Thousands of people gathered in Mexico City’s Zócalo on Sunday to trade 2026 World Cup soccer stickers as part of a Guinness World Records attempt. The event, organized by Panini, saw participants exchanging stickers depicting players and teams from the tournament. It coincided with similar events in New York, New Jersey, and Zapopan, Mexico, creating a global simultaneous effort to set a new record. The activity drew people of all ages, with families and individuals participating in the exchange. Some attendees successfully completed their World Cup sticker albums, while others focused on the social aspect of the event. The trading process involved swapping duplicates for rarer cards, often leading to long lines and animated conversations among participants. Most of the stickers exchanged were not particularly valuable on their own, but certain older editions, such as those featuring the debut of Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo, can command prices in the hundreds of dollars. These rare cards are highly sought after by collectors, making them a focal point of the trading sessions. However, the primary goal for many was to complete their albums rather than focus solely on acquiring high-value cards. Victor González, one participant, shared that he had previously been unable to attend the Fan Fest due to overcrowding, but the sticker exchange offered a more accessible alternative. “It doesn’t matter whether the album gets filled or not, I came to enjoy the activities and the atmosphere,” he said. His comments reflect the broader sentiment among attendees, who valued the experience over the outcome. Gabriela Pineda, another participant, emphasized the communal nature of the event. She was filling out the World Cup album with her 7-year-old son, and she noted that the shared goal helped make the financial commitment worthwhile. “Buying the stickers is a significant investment, so I think being around so many people with the same goal helps offset the cost,” she explained. Her perspective highlights how the event fosters both familial bonds and a sense of collective achievement. The event in Mexico City was just one of several coordinated efforts worldwide. In New York, participants gathered at Central Park, while in New Jersey, the exchange took place near the Meadowlands Sports Complex. In Zapopan, the city’s central plaza became a hub for sticker trading. Each location mirrored the others in terms of enthusiasm and participation, reinforcing the global appeal of the World Cup and its associated traditions. The World Cup sticker exchange has become a beloved tradition for fans, blending nostalgia with modern collectibles. For many, it represents a connection to the sport and a way to engage with fellow supporters. As the 2026 World Cup approaches, these events serve as a prelude to the larger celebrations that will follow, offering a unique opportunity to participate in a shared cultural moment.