Although China failed to qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, the country’s presence is unmistakable, with Chinese-made products and technology playing a major role throughout the tournament.
From stadium construction and transportation to match technology and fan merchandise, Chinese companies are contributing behind the scenes across the World Cup’s three host nations.
In Mexico, the iconic Estadio Azteca underwent a major renovation led in part by China Railway Construction Engineering Group ahead of the tournament. Chinese rail giant CRRC also supplied 115 light-rail trains serving the host cities of Mexico City, Monterrey and Guadalajara, while about 95 percent of the 800 electric shuttle buses transporting fans in Mexico City were manufactured in China.
Chinese technology is also supporting match operations. Electronics manufacturer Hisense is providing display systems for the Video Assistant Referee (VAR), while Lenovo has deployed servers and artificial intelligence solutions across all 16 World Cup stadiums to support FIFA’s technology and operations.
Beyond infrastructure, Chinese culture has also made its mark. Popular toy character Labubu, from Pop Mart’s The Monsters franchise, appeared during the tournament’s opening ceremony, becoming the first Chinese original intellectual property to feature at a World Cup opening celebration.
Chinese brands are also expanding their global reach through football partnerships. Beverage companies such as Luckin Coffee and Cotti Coffee have teamed up with national teams including Spain and Argentina, further strengthening China’s presence at the world’s biggest football tournament despite its national team’s absence.
