The 7 Most Popular Sports in Mexico and How Long They Have Been Played

Mexico has had an interesting history with sports over the years. Ironically, many of their traditional sports have come from Spain, which would be similar to the relationships between the United States and England.

But the seven most popular sports in Mexico are truly the most unique activities you will ever learn about, and there is so much to unfold. Moreover, there is a lot of tradition behind these sports. It’s time to learn some new things and unveil some of Mexico’s history in sports.

7. Bullfighting

Bullfighting has been in Mexico since August 13, 1529, eight years after the Spanish arrived.

When a country invades another, it usually imparts some of its traditions. Therefore, it is not surprising to see bullfighting end up on this list. Bullfighting has been around Mexico nearly since the beginning. It is a very dangerous sport. Yet, it is one of the most popular sports in Mexico.

6. Volleyball

The United States introduced volleyball to Mexico, and by 1968, there were competitions in the country.

Volleyball has a similar following in Mexico in the same way that hockey is in the United States. Ultimately, there is a niche following and many passionate fans. Carlos Guerra is the most famous player to come from Mexico. It is a sport that is on the rise and continuing to flourish in Mexico.

5. Lucha Libre

Lucha Libre Wrestling has provided numerous legends, such as Gory Guerrero and Rey Mysterio Jr.

Lucha Libre is technically sports entertainment. However, it makes its way on this list due to the love and passion that Mexican fans have for it. Legends like Rey Mysterio Jr. and Gory Guerrero have become icons for their performances in the Lucha Libre AAA Worldwide. Yes, professional wrestling is not a real sport. But it involves real bumps and real athletes. It started in the 1930s and has over 3 million fans in Mexico.

4. Basketball

Basketball allegedly came to Mexico in the 1930s.

The National Basketball League is the Mexican version of the NBA. Eduardo Najera is the most popular player to ever come out of Mexico. Also, he is a former NBA player. The first instance of basketball came to Mexico around the 1930s. Substantially, there are many fans of the sport, and it is continuing to evolve. It is one of the most popular sports in Mexico.

3. Boxing

Boxing is much more popular in Mexico than it is in the United States.

Boxing is fairly popular in the United States. But it is explodingly popular in Mexico. Julio Cesar Chavez is an icon. He is also one of the most popular Mexican boxers of all time. He had a 107-6 record throughout his illustrious career and is one of the significant reasons why boxing is so prevalent in Mexico.

The sport brings in 4 million fans and is all the rage in Mexico. His son, Julio Cesar Chavez Jr., has experienced similar success in the ring, with a record of 53-6, hoping to emulate his father. You cannot go far in Mexico without seeing someone who loves boxing.

2. Baseball

Fernando Venezuela was one of the most popular Mexican-born baseball players of all time and helped lead the Los Angeles Dodgers to a World Series title.

Ask any Los Angeles Dodgers fan about Mexican players who have helped their team and watch them light up. First, there was Fernando Venezuela. He helped lead the Dodgers to a World Series title in 1988 and 1988. Then, there is Julio Urias. He helped lead them to a World Series title in 2020. The Mexican fans who currently live in Los Angeles are second to none. Likewise, there are numerous fans who live in Mexico who love baseball.

Baseball is one of the oldest and most popular sports in Mexico, having been around since the early 1900s. There has always been strong support for baseball. Subsequently, it got even more popular after the World Baseball Classic, according to AP News. The sport is incredibly loved by the people and is only behind one sport.

1. Football/Soccer

Football has been around Mexico since the late 1800s.

Huge Sanchez is the most popular football player of all time. He was one of the best players in Mexico and the world. Sanchez helped put Mexico on the map when it came to football. Additionally, he also helped Mexico get to the 1986 FIFA World Cup. It was one of their few appearances in the elite eight.

Football has over 8 million players. Also, a 2022 survey revealed that over 40 percent of people in Mexico enjoyed watching soccer. You will find kids playing the sport throughout Mexico. Likewise, there are numerous contests and tournaments. It is the definitive sport of Mexico.

Summary of the 7 Most Popular Sports in Mexico and How Long They Have Been Played