Street Child United and Fútbol Más announce partnership with Mexican Social Security Institute (IMSS)

February 12, 2026

LONDON – Street Child United (SCU), a youth-led global non-profit, and Fútbol Más, an international socio-sport NGO, today announced a new partnership with the Mexican Social Security Institute (IMSS) to support the 2026 Street Child World Cup (SCWC), which will take place in Mexico City from May 5–15, 2026.

Through this partnership, IMSS will provide accommodation and key logistical support for participating teams, ensuring a safe, dignified, and world-class environment for participants with access to a wide range of facilities throughout the tournament. The agreement also secures entry to a professional, regulation-sized stadium in excellent condition to host the SCWC.

The Street Child World Cup is a global football tournament and arts and advocacy event that brings together street-connected children from around the world- young people who have experienced homelessness, extreme poverty, violence, or exclusion. Beyond competition, the SCWC empowers participants to advocate for fundamental rights, including access to legal identity and education, protection from violence, and gender equality. 

John Wroe, Co-Founder and CEO of Street Child United, said, Staging the Street Child World Cup in a historic football nation like Mexico is a powerful opportunity to elevate the voices of street-connected children on a global stage. The support of IMSS ensures we can deliver a tournament that is not only inspirational but transformative, helping create a lasting impact forthe young people we serve.”

“We are very proud of this alliance with IMSS,” said Ignacio Gómez, CEO and Executive Director of Fútbol Más México. “It will be an experience rooted in dignity, quality, and care for children and youth during this World Cup. It is a safe and nurturing space where every child will feel protected. In Mexico, we welcome them with open arms.”

Zoé Robledo Aburto, Director General of the Mexican Social Security Institute, said, “The Street Child World Cup 2026 was decided to be held in Mexico, at the IMSS Oaxtepec Vacation Center, from May 5 to 15. The event will include activities beyond football, as well as the participation of international figures who have been involved in this global initiative since 2010, showing how football can open the pitch to everyone.”

The 2026 Street Child World Cup will take place in the lead-up to the FIFA World Cup, positioning Mexico as a global leader for youth advocacy, sport for development, and children’s rights.

About Street Child United- Street Child United (SCU) is a youth-led global movement transforming how the world treats street-connected young people. SCU brings young people face-to-face with governments and institutions to detail their lived experiences and impact laws, policies, and public attitudes. In doing so, SCU enables young people to challenge and change systems that marginalise them.

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