Last Train to North America (2026) s01e05 Episode Script
Mexico City
-[plane engines humming]
-[soft dramatic music playing]
[Martin] A new format is on the horizon
featuring 48 national teams.
A total of 104 matches will be played
over the course of 39 days.
That's why our itinerary
includes air travel,
a territory that will have
three host cities,
Mexico City, Guadalajara, and Monterrey.
Mexico awaits us,
the third largest country in Latin America
and the second most populous.
[announcer speaking Spanish over PA]
[Martin] A country on the verge
of making history awaits us,
the first to host three World Cups.
[theme music playing]
[Martin] Welcome.
This is Last Train to Russia.
And from here,
we continue with Last Train to Qatar.
This is the stadium
that will host the next World Cup final.
This is Last Train to North America.
[bystander shouting
in indigenous language]
[ceremonial drum music playing]
[intriguing music playing]
[dial tone ringing]
[lively chatter]
[dial tone continues ringing]
[in Spanish] Hi, my love.
Yes, I made it.
Well, I'm here looking for Desiree.
We are going to meet up.
Yes. The altitude got to me yesterday.
This plaza speaks
to the size of the country.
It's huge. Full of people.
There are so many aromas.
There's a lot of food spots.
It's a very interesting city.
How are the girls?
Give them a kiss for me.
Goodbye.
[intriguing music continues]
[Martin in English] And so,
we arrive at a place that represents
the clash and fusion of two worlds,
the pre-Hispanic past
and the colonial heritage.
Welcome to El Zócalo,
[music concludes]
[Martin] La Plaza de la Constitución,
one of the largest
public squares in the world.
To learn more
about it and to understand it,
we await our guide.
-[in Spanish] Martin! How are you?
-Hey!
Welcome to the Mexican universe,
"El Zócalo" is the heart of the country.
Everything happens here, right?
Political protests, cultural gatherings.
This is the start
of my journey through Mexico.
We begin our adventures together.
I love your unique perspective.
This is a country
that's passionate about soccer.
You can show me your nation and identity.
Especially because I played soccer.
I love the game.
I also know what it means to be Mexican
and the history behind this country.
I hope I can help you enjoy your trip.
You will guide me.
But we will experience it together.
Perfect! Let's do it.
[soft guitar music playing]
[Martin in English] This site
is the quintessential public space
for the culture of this country.
It is the main stage where the power
and will of the Mexican people
are manifested,
a center of identity and tradition
where national pride finds its expression.
[in Spanish] Desiree, I love
that we met up at El Zócalo.
But why do we start here?
The Mexican energy merges here.
That is the National Palace.
The President lives there.
That is the Mexico City
government building.
That's the original town hall.
It merges directly with the cathedral.
I love the towers in the cathedral.
It's impressive.
I see that this is a gathering spot.
Has it always been this way?
[Desiree] Yes.
Since the times of Tenochtitlan.
This is where the rituals were held.
Now, you have protests and concerts.
Independence Day is celebrated here.
It's an energetic focal point
for Mexicans.
[Martin in English] El Zócalo
has been witness to the rise and fall
of every significant era
for the Mexican people.
A space where,
historically, social movements
and rituals of belonging
have found their stage.
[in Spanish]
This is impressive. It's spectacular.
[Desiree] You can find many pieces here.
They are all over El Zócalo.
There is an archaeology museum here.
Behind this archaeological piece,
you can see the present.
This is the historical foundation
of Tenochtitlán
and behind it
is the present-day government building.
[soft guitar music continues]
[Martin] This is the heart of El Zócalo.
[Desiree] Yes.
In 1843, they wanted to build something
to represent our independence.
They couldn't do it.
So, now we only have El Zócalo
as the foundation of it all.
[Martin] That's why we have this circle.
Legend says this is where the independence
monument was going to be built.
-Right here?
-Exactly.
[music concludes]
[in English] As our guide told me,
this is a perfect spot to start a journey
to discover this country.
El Zócalo has everything.
The smell, the color,
the diversity, the rituals.
It's the main gate
to start getting to know Mexico.
METRO POLICE
-[whistle blowing]
-[intriguing music playing]
[Martin in Spanish] This place is huge.
There are so many people
going in all directions.
You're going to laugh.
There are 12 train lines.
The train transports
a large quantity of people daily.
Over five million people.
It is the second biggest
train system in America.
It's only behind New York.
In a city like this it's necessary
to have a train system.
It's also very cheap.
The fare costs five pesos.
How much is five pesos?
A quarter of a dollar.
[Martin] People can easily access
this transportation method.
[Desiree] Exactly.
-[whistle blowing]
-[train brakes screeching]
[Martin in English] In the subway,
you can also learn about the history
of this land,
"Tenochtitlan."
The old city of the Aztecs.
Its meaning, Tetl, "stone."
Nochtli, "the fruit of the cactus."
Tlan, "abundance."
The stone where you can find
the abundance of the fruit.
-[indistinct chatter]
-[intriguing music playing]
[Martin in Spanish] I love traveling
through the city by train.
Especially a city like Mexico City
which has a lot of traffic.
The train makes it easier to move around.
Now, then…
will fans be able to use the metro
during the World Cup to get to games?
There is a train station
at Estadio Azteca.
So, fans will be able to get
to the stadium directly from the train.
Directly.
It will be incredibly easy.
[Martin in English] The Mexico City Metro
is one of the largest
and busiest subway systems in the world.
During the World Cup,
the city will launch a commemorative
integrated mobility card for the event,
which will facilitate access
to the metro,
-bus, and light rail systems.
-[music concludes]
[Martin] There are few active journalists
capable of recounting the events
of the last two World Cups
hosted in this country today.
Jose Ramon Fernandez, the godfather
of Mexican sports journalism,
will help us analyze
and interpret the historical imprint
that soccer has left upon this culture.
Today we travel with Desiree
to La Hemeroteca Nacional,
home to the largest collection
of journalistic publications
in the country.
[soft music playing]
[Martin] We have arrived at Universidad
Nacional Autónoma de México,
a pillar of national identity.
A space for critical consciousness
and freedom of expression.
Jose Ramon
[in Spanish]
Welcome, Martin Ainstien, to UNAM.
-Thank you so much.
-This is a great university.
-How are you?
-You already know of this place Desiree.
Yes, I do. I like it.
[Martin] What a wonderful place.
[Jose Ramon] This is the newspaper library
at the university.
You can sense that
it's a very special place when you arrive.
It's modern but it has a lot of history.
It's very well taken care of.
You can find it all. They have everything
since the university was founded in 1954.
UNAM was founded in 1954.
And this building opened in 1979.
[Jose Ramon] This was the first university
in Latin America.
This is the biggest university.
It has the most students.
But this library
is not just for the university.
It's the national library.
Exactly, this is the national library.
So, the university also has the mission
to preserve the history of the country.
As Desiree said, it was opened in 1979.
It was built to store Mexico's archives.
[Martin in English]
Mexico's selection as the host nation
for the 1970 World Cup
was a historical process
that broke with the dominance
that Europe and South America
had held over the tournament.
The decision was made in 1964
shortly before the city would also host
its first Olympic Games in 1968.
[in Spanish]
This match was Brazil against Italy.
What was it like going to a stadium
with 100,000 people?
It was Mexico's first time
hosting the World Cup.
You had Pele. How was that?
It was like a boiling pot.
After Mexico got eliminated,
our people supported Brazil.
Pele was a phenom.
[Martin] What was it like
to see Pele in Estadio Azteca?
It was fantastic to see him play.
He was the leader,
he scored the first goal.
Fans rushed the field when the game ended.
They put a sombrero on Pele
and started carrying him.
[music concludes]
[intriguing dramatic music playing]
-[Martin] Mexico '70.
-[Jose Ramon] Pele.
-[Martin] Mexico '86.
-Maradona.
[Martin]
It was the best version of Pele.
And the best version of Maradona.
[Jose Ramon] Yes, by a lot.
Maradona was the star in 1986.
He was a fantastic player.
[Martin] When did you notice
that Maradona had transformed?
Maradona truly showed up
in the game against England.
The England game was key.
That's when people realized
that he was brilliant on the field.
[Martin] Those two World Cups
are remembered as the best ones ever.
They were the best World Cups.
That's why Estadio Azteca is so iconic.
Mexico will be the first country
to host three World Cups.
But it won't be the same Estadio Azteca
as '86 and '70. It'll be renovated.
[Jose Ramon] It won't be the same.
The stadium will have 80,000 fans.
It will have luxury suites.
-It will have luxurious restaurants.
-It will be more modern.
Modern.
[Martin in English] Mexico prepares
for its third World Cup in home soil.
And Jose Ramon
for his 14th World Cup coverage.
An archive and a legacy
that helps us grasp
the true significance
of soccer in this country.
[music fades]
[upbeat music playing]
[Martin] The moment has arrived
to make our way
to the main soccer stage in the city.
To do so, we must board the train.
After reviewing the history
of the Azteca Stadium,
it's time to go there
and to experience it firsthand.
Now, we're on a train
that takes us there,
right at the station
that is just steps away.
-[birds chirping]
-[music concludes]
[suspenseful music playing]
[Martin]
And so we arrive at the Azteca Stadium,
a stadium with a truly special aura,
a place that embodies
the history of soccer.
With its emblematic red sun
resting upon its main entrance.
Every single detail serves as a memory,
a symbol that has left a permanent mark
on the collective memory
in the world of soccer.
Built between 1962 and 1966,
it stands as an engineering marvel,
iconic to both Mexico
and the entire world.
[Jose in Spanish] Jamaica to Paris.
Please, the executive suites
have to be clean.
We have visitors at 4:00.
Yes. The north corner, please.
[Martin] Jose Ignacio Ramirez,
Director of Public Relations,
tasked with overseeing
the Estadio Azteca renovation project,
will be the one
to welcome us this afternoon,
allowing us to learn in detail
about the recent process
behind this undertaking.
[in Spanish] It's spectacular.
It's a new place
mixed with a lot of history.
It feels like a mythical place, right?
[Martin] Yes. It's a majestic place.
And now it's more beautiful
than it's ever been.
We have a capacity of 87,500.
It will be uncomfortable for our rivals.
But the local team
will feel the embrace of the fans.
It's not just another modern stadium.
-This stadium respects its own history.
-It's true to its essence.
What was the plan?
We have an integral remodel,
that counted on five or six projects.
First, we had to dig underground
about 14 meters.
That area was designated for locker rooms,
anti-doping offices, referees.
The second one where we are located.
The Inter.MX terrace.
This will be a social area
for about 800 fans.
On the other side,
you can see the presidential spots.
The fourth important project is the pitch.
We have the latest technology.
It has advanced ventilation,
drainage, and air injection systems.
We kept the essence of the old structure.
But we upgraded everything
that a modern world-class stadium needs.
We are ready to host world-class events.
[Martin] There is something
very interesting about this stadium.
It's huge, but it feels intimate.
Is it because of the roof?
[Jose] The stadium did not have
a roof when it opened.
It was added after.
It creates a limit. The roof makes
the place cozier and louder.
[Martin] Jose, what new things
-will fans experience here?
-[thrilling music playing]
[Jose] We are working
on a consumer network.
We will have an app where you will be able
to order food from your seat.
We will create an experience
that will make fans want to come back.
[Martin in English] The new LED screens
at the Azteca Stadium
is part of the tech renovation
of this building.
Look at these great boxes.
What are they?
They're access points to the Wi-Fi,
a new system that,
through an application,
the fans that come to watch the World Cup
will have the ability to order food,
for example, from their own seats.
[music concludes]
Wow, I get goosebumps
just walking down this tunnel.
This is called the Marathon Tunnel.
In 1970 or '86, Pele and Maradona
used to climb up this ramp
to play the final.
One of the main changes
of the renovation of the Azteca
was to change the tunnel to a modern
and new one for this World Cup.
[soft dramatic music playing]
[Martin] It is impossible
to analyze this renovation
without thinking of the past World Cups
held at this stadium.
[Jose in Spanish]
The tunnel is still being used.
We call it the Marathon tunnel.
But there is a tunnel that connects
the teams to their corresponding benches.
When you stand here, you think
about the best goal in World Cup history.
[echoing cheers]
[Martin] You think about Pele.
Pele scored right there.
[Martin] We see a lot of workers.
[Jose] Yes. We are working
on finalizing the details.
Everything will be perfect
for the World Cup.
It has been exhausting.
But it has been a wonderful experience.
I will always cherish
being a part of history.
[ethereal music playing]
[Martin in English] The Azteca Stadium
will host a total of five matches
during the upcoming World Cup.
The opening match will mark
the reunion, after 40 years,
of the World Cup and this iconic stadium.
It is very special
to be here at the Azteca.
The stadium has so much history,
from Pele to Maradona.
The only stadium, the first one,
to host a World Cup
for the third time and feeling it,
being sitting here
at the very top of the stadium
is a unique sensation.
[music swells]
[music falls]
[ethereal music continues]
[Martin] Dawn breaks
on the outskirts of Mexico City.
Venturing about 45 minutes northeast
of the sprawling metropolis,
we discover this marvel.
The prelude to a magical journey.
[in Spanish] We are going up.
This is a unique experience.
Where are we going?
[Desiree] We are going
to the City of the Gods.
Teotihuacán.
I wanted to bring you
on this hot air balloon ride,
so you can be able
to appreciate the pyramids.
It's simply spectacular.
As the balloon rises,
the pyramids reveal themselves.
It's impressive to see the sunrise.
You see the outlines of balloons
with the orange sun behind them.
It's so calm and peaceful.
[uplifting music playing]
[Martin in English]
We're flying over a unique site.
We're heading towards the City of Gods.
Welcome to Teotihuacán.
[music concludes]
[whistle blowing bird call]
[bird calling]
[Martin]
We have arrived at one of the most
significant archaeological sites
in the world.
Guided by the renowned archaeologist
Sergio Gomez,
we delve into this fascinating history.
[Sergio in Spanish]
We are in Teotihuacán,
This is one of the most important
places in Pre-Hispanic Mexico.
We believe the correct name
of Teotihuacán was Tollan Teotihuacán.
Tollan means "the sacred place."
And Teotihuacán translates to,
"The place where men become gods."
The entire city is a perfect orthogonal.
There are hundreds of streets and avenues.
We believe that 200,000 people
lived here at its peak.
In present time,
200,000 sounds like a small number.
Since we are used to millions.
But it was unique in those times.
Teotihuacán was the biggest city
in America.
[Martin in English] One of the most
important cities back in the day.
Two hundred thousand people
lived here in a huge site
that right now is able to visit, to enjoy,
and to understand Mexican culture.
Welcome to Teotihuacán, the City of Gods.
[ethereal music playing]
[Martin] A city developed
with brilliant astronomical precision
aligned with the cosmos
and agricultural cycles.
-[soft exciting music playing]
-[bird calling]
[Sergio] This is one of the biggest
buildings in Pre-Hispanic Mexico.
It is known as the Pyramid of the Sun.
It might be the most important
astronomical marker
ever built by humanity.
It measures 210 meters on each side.
It is 65 meters tall.
When I say
that it's an astronomy monument,
it's because once a year,
the sun rises exactly at the center.
[Martin in English] Although it's one
of the most studied archaeological sites,
Teotihuacán continues
to harbor great mysteries
regarding its original inhabitants,
their customs,
and the development of their spaces.
[Martin in Spanish] What is this place?
[Sergio] This represents Tlalocan.
It is a mythical place.
It is a place that shows
what happens after we die.
This mural is very special.
Because we can see
that people played with a ball.
The rules were
that you couldn't drop the ball.
And you couldn't touch
the ball with your hands.
You could only use
your hips and shoulders.
-That's really hard.
-You had to use protection.
Because the ball was so hard
that it could injure you.
[Martin in English]
A solid rubber ball,
weighing between six and 11 pounds.
According to studies, in this game,
the winner wasn't the one who scored,
but rather the one who prevented the ball
from hitting the ground.
Scoring a goal was considered a bad omen.
As we can see in this painting,
we can see some similarities
that remain today in a sport
that is completely different.
-[in Spanish] Are you up for it?
-Climb it?
-Of course.
-You think so?
-Yeah, let's go.
-Let's go.
[thrilling music playing]
[Martin in English]
The Pyramid of the Moon
once served
as a central hub for public rituals
and ceremonies dedicated
for fertility and water.
Today we face the beautiful challenge
of climbing it on foot.
[thrilling music continues]
It was worth climbing those steep stairs
to reach this point, to have this view.
Gives you an idea of the size of a city
that was one of the biggest
back in the day.
We continue
with the Last Train to North America.
[music fades]
[traffic honking]
[Martin]
We are in a typical street of Mexico City.
And we see a queue.
There's people waiting.
More people here.
More people here.
Now, the queue makes a left.
And we're gonna go the other way.
[upbeat music playing]
[Martin] A taqueria with a Michelin star.
A well-deserved accolade
for this city's gastronomy.
-Angel.
-[Angel in Spanish] Yes, tell me.
You have so many people waiting.
We are working very hard.
Why are tacos here so famous?
Our meat is of excellent quality.
We have ribs, steak,
pork chop and tenderloin.
We won our Michelin star
thanks to our rib and tenderloin tacos.
Those are our best ones.
Speaking of secrets,
the other taco stands
don't have someone making tortillas.
This lady makes magic.
Yes, it's made from a special corn.
It gives it a specific flavor.
The tortilla gives our meat
another flavor.
-[Martin] Can we try it?
-Go ahead.
[music concludes]
-Thank you.
-Thank you very much.
This is a special taco because you can see
that it's a clean taco.
The flavor comes
from the meat and the corn.
You can also add salsa,
but the lemon is always key in the taco.
[Martin] Let's try it. Bon appétit.
-Thank you.
-Enjoy.
[upbeat music playing]
[Martin] It is so good.
Wow. The tortilla is amazing.
It's delicious.
[Martin in English]
It is estimated that in Mexico City,
there is a taco stand or shop
every 400 meters,
making it the most accessible food source
in the city.
[upbeat music continues]
[Martin] To continue exploring
the popular traditions
that leave their unique mark on this city,
we simply couldn't pass up the chance
to visit its colorful masks.
-[in Spanish] Is this the one for Mistico?
-[vendor] Yes, it's Mistico.
-[Martin] Can I try it on?
-Yes.
[Martin] Thank you.
-Does "El Mistico" have different colors?
-[vendor] Yes. Various colors.
Which one is the traditional one?
The white one?
The white one is the classic one.
[Martin] There you go.
[upbeat music continues]
[Martin in English] Lucha libre,
or Mexican professional wrestling,
is a fundamental pillar
of the country's entertainment culture.
Today we will discover how the locals
experience this nightly show,
a performance steeped in rich tradition.
[music concludes]
[in Spanish] This is another world.
There are people screaming all over.
It's very colorful and noisy.
This is Mexican lucha libre.
What I love is that people
are really passionate about lucha libre.
You see them screaming.
You see them wearing the masks.
It's a part of their life.
[groovy music playing]
We are all fighters from birth in Mexico.
It's ingrained in our skin.
You choose which wrestling style you like.
Aggressive, technical, etc…
It's part of the Mexican culture.
[Martin] What happens in there?
It's pure passion.
You decompress. You scream.
It's an experience you have to live
at least once in your life.
[Martin in English] The Arena Mexico,
a cathedral for Mexican wrestling.
Lucha libre, as Mexicans call it,
is a way of life.
And this is where all happens,
where people gather, when they shout,
where they really feel
what Mexican culture is about.
Welcome to Mexico Arena.
Welcome to a very special night
of Mexican wrestling.
[uplifting music playing]
[Mistico in Spanish] Lucha libre
is magical. It connects with the fans.
The Luchador must make sure
that the fan is always enjoying.
Does anyone know your face?
No, I live a double life.
[Martin] A double life?
[Mistico] I am "El Mistico" in the ring.
Once I leave the arena,
I'm a normal person.
But when I put the mask back on,
I am a Luchador once again.
[uplifting music continues]
[music concludes]
[Martin in English]
Considered the greatest phenomenon
in modern Mexican lucha libre,
Mistico made his first appearance in 2004
and revitalized the sport.
Tonight, he returns to the grandest stage.
[crowd cheering and applauding]
[crowd chanting]
This is the moment
that everyone was expecting.
Hear the crowd.
The Mistico is right there in the ring.
[groovy music playing]
[crowd cheering and whistling]
[Martin] All kinds of characters,
exotic, technicians, brawlers.
There was no better way to wrap up
our visit to this city.
Mexican lucha libre is, without a doubt,
a fundamental expression
of Mexican folklore.
To understand this culture,
one must also experience these places.
[music concludes]
[Martin]
This was Last Train to North America.
See you at the next station.
[intriguing instrumental music playing]
[music concludes]
-[soft dramatic music playing]
[Martin] A new format is on the horizon
featuring 48 national teams.
A total of 104 matches will be played
over the course of 39 days.
That's why our itinerary
includes air travel,
a territory that will have
three host cities,
Mexico City, Guadalajara, and Monterrey.
Mexico awaits us,
the third largest country in Latin America
and the second most populous.
[announcer speaking Spanish over PA]
[Martin] A country on the verge
of making history awaits us,
the first to host three World Cups.
[theme music playing]
[Martin] Welcome.
This is Last Train to Russia.
And from here,
we continue with Last Train to Qatar.
This is the stadium
that will host the next World Cup final.
This is Last Train to North America.
[bystander shouting
in indigenous language]
[ceremonial drum music playing]
[intriguing music playing]
[dial tone ringing]
[lively chatter]
[dial tone continues ringing]
[in Spanish] Hi, my love.
Yes, I made it.
Well, I'm here looking for Desiree.
We are going to meet up.
Yes. The altitude got to me yesterday.
This plaza speaks
to the size of the country.
It's huge. Full of people.
There are so many aromas.
There's a lot of food spots.
It's a very interesting city.
How are the girls?
Give them a kiss for me.
Goodbye.
[intriguing music continues]
[Martin in English] And so,
we arrive at a place that represents
the clash and fusion of two worlds,
the pre-Hispanic past
and the colonial heritage.
Welcome to El Zócalo,
[music concludes]
[Martin] La Plaza de la Constitución,
one of the largest
public squares in the world.
To learn more
about it and to understand it,
we await our guide.
-[in Spanish] Martin! How are you?
-Hey!
Welcome to the Mexican universe,
"El Zócalo" is the heart of the country.
Everything happens here, right?
Political protests, cultural gatherings.
This is the start
of my journey through Mexico.
We begin our adventures together.
I love your unique perspective.
This is a country
that's passionate about soccer.
You can show me your nation and identity.
Especially because I played soccer.
I love the game.
I also know what it means to be Mexican
and the history behind this country.
I hope I can help you enjoy your trip.
You will guide me.
But we will experience it together.
Perfect! Let's do it.
[soft guitar music playing]
[Martin in English] This site
is the quintessential public space
for the culture of this country.
It is the main stage where the power
and will of the Mexican people
are manifested,
a center of identity and tradition
where national pride finds its expression.
[in Spanish] Desiree, I love
that we met up at El Zócalo.
But why do we start here?
The Mexican energy merges here.
That is the National Palace.
The President lives there.
That is the Mexico City
government building.
That's the original town hall.
It merges directly with the cathedral.
I love the towers in the cathedral.
It's impressive.
I see that this is a gathering spot.
Has it always been this way?
[Desiree] Yes.
Since the times of Tenochtitlan.
This is where the rituals were held.
Now, you have protests and concerts.
Independence Day is celebrated here.
It's an energetic focal point
for Mexicans.
[Martin in English] El Zócalo
has been witness to the rise and fall
of every significant era
for the Mexican people.
A space where,
historically, social movements
and rituals of belonging
have found their stage.
[in Spanish]
This is impressive. It's spectacular.
[Desiree] You can find many pieces here.
They are all over El Zócalo.
There is an archaeology museum here.
Behind this archaeological piece,
you can see the present.
This is the historical foundation
of Tenochtitlán
and behind it
is the present-day government building.
[soft guitar music continues]
[Martin] This is the heart of El Zócalo.
[Desiree] Yes.
In 1843, they wanted to build something
to represent our independence.
They couldn't do it.
So, now we only have El Zócalo
as the foundation of it all.
[Martin] That's why we have this circle.
Legend says this is where the independence
monument was going to be built.
-Right here?
-Exactly.
[music concludes]
[in English] As our guide told me,
this is a perfect spot to start a journey
to discover this country.
El Zócalo has everything.
The smell, the color,
the diversity, the rituals.
It's the main gate
to start getting to know Mexico.
METRO POLICE
-[whistle blowing]
-[intriguing music playing]
[Martin in Spanish] This place is huge.
There are so many people
going in all directions.
You're going to laugh.
There are 12 train lines.
The train transports
a large quantity of people daily.
Over five million people.
It is the second biggest
train system in America.
It's only behind New York.
In a city like this it's necessary
to have a train system.
It's also very cheap.
The fare costs five pesos.
How much is five pesos?
A quarter of a dollar.
[Martin] People can easily access
this transportation method.
[Desiree] Exactly.
-[whistle blowing]
-[train brakes screeching]
[Martin in English] In the subway,
you can also learn about the history
of this land,
"Tenochtitlan."
The old city of the Aztecs.
Its meaning, Tetl, "stone."
Nochtli, "the fruit of the cactus."
Tlan, "abundance."
The stone where you can find
the abundance of the fruit.
-[indistinct chatter]
-[intriguing music playing]
[Martin in Spanish] I love traveling
through the city by train.
Especially a city like Mexico City
which has a lot of traffic.
The train makes it easier to move around.
Now, then…
will fans be able to use the metro
during the World Cup to get to games?
There is a train station
at Estadio Azteca.
So, fans will be able to get
to the stadium directly from the train.
Directly.
It will be incredibly easy.
[Martin in English] The Mexico City Metro
is one of the largest
and busiest subway systems in the world.
During the World Cup,
the city will launch a commemorative
integrated mobility card for the event,
which will facilitate access
to the metro,
-bus, and light rail systems.
-[music concludes]
[Martin] There are few active journalists
capable of recounting the events
of the last two World Cups
hosted in this country today.
Jose Ramon Fernandez, the godfather
of Mexican sports journalism,
will help us analyze
and interpret the historical imprint
that soccer has left upon this culture.
Today we travel with Desiree
to La Hemeroteca Nacional,
home to the largest collection
of journalistic publications
in the country.
[soft music playing]
[Martin] We have arrived at Universidad
Nacional Autónoma de México,
a pillar of national identity.
A space for critical consciousness
and freedom of expression.
Jose Ramon
[in Spanish]
Welcome, Martin Ainstien, to UNAM.
-Thank you so much.
-This is a great university.
-How are you?
-You already know of this place Desiree.
Yes, I do. I like it.
[Martin] What a wonderful place.
[Jose Ramon] This is the newspaper library
at the university.
You can sense that
it's a very special place when you arrive.
It's modern but it has a lot of history.
It's very well taken care of.
You can find it all. They have everything
since the university was founded in 1954.
UNAM was founded in 1954.
And this building opened in 1979.
[Jose Ramon] This was the first university
in Latin America.
This is the biggest university.
It has the most students.
But this library
is not just for the university.
It's the national library.
Exactly, this is the national library.
So, the university also has the mission
to preserve the history of the country.
As Desiree said, it was opened in 1979.
It was built to store Mexico's archives.
[Martin in English]
Mexico's selection as the host nation
for the 1970 World Cup
was a historical process
that broke with the dominance
that Europe and South America
had held over the tournament.
The decision was made in 1964
shortly before the city would also host
its first Olympic Games in 1968.
[in Spanish]
This match was Brazil against Italy.
What was it like going to a stadium
with 100,000 people?
It was Mexico's first time
hosting the World Cup.
You had Pele. How was that?
It was like a boiling pot.
After Mexico got eliminated,
our people supported Brazil.
Pele was a phenom.
[Martin] What was it like
to see Pele in Estadio Azteca?
It was fantastic to see him play.
He was the leader,
he scored the first goal.
Fans rushed the field when the game ended.
They put a sombrero on Pele
and started carrying him.
[music concludes]
[intriguing dramatic music playing]
-[Martin] Mexico '70.
-[Jose Ramon] Pele.
-[Martin] Mexico '86.
-Maradona.
[Martin]
It was the best version of Pele.
And the best version of Maradona.
[Jose Ramon] Yes, by a lot.
Maradona was the star in 1986.
He was a fantastic player.
[Martin] When did you notice
that Maradona had transformed?
Maradona truly showed up
in the game against England.
The England game was key.
That's when people realized
that he was brilliant on the field.
[Martin] Those two World Cups
are remembered as the best ones ever.
They were the best World Cups.
That's why Estadio Azteca is so iconic.
Mexico will be the first country
to host three World Cups.
But it won't be the same Estadio Azteca
as '86 and '70. It'll be renovated.
[Jose Ramon] It won't be the same.
The stadium will have 80,000 fans.
It will have luxury suites.
-It will have luxurious restaurants.
-It will be more modern.
Modern.
[Martin in English] Mexico prepares
for its third World Cup in home soil.
And Jose Ramon
for his 14th World Cup coverage.
An archive and a legacy
that helps us grasp
the true significance
of soccer in this country.
[music fades]
[upbeat music playing]
[Martin] The moment has arrived
to make our way
to the main soccer stage in the city.
To do so, we must board the train.
After reviewing the history
of the Azteca Stadium,
it's time to go there
and to experience it firsthand.
Now, we're on a train
that takes us there,
right at the station
that is just steps away.
-[birds chirping]
-[music concludes]
[suspenseful music playing]
[Martin]
And so we arrive at the Azteca Stadium,
a stadium with a truly special aura,
a place that embodies
the history of soccer.
With its emblematic red sun
resting upon its main entrance.
Every single detail serves as a memory,
a symbol that has left a permanent mark
on the collective memory
in the world of soccer.
Built between 1962 and 1966,
it stands as an engineering marvel,
iconic to both Mexico
and the entire world.
[Jose in Spanish] Jamaica to Paris.
Please, the executive suites
have to be clean.
We have visitors at 4:00.
Yes. The north corner, please.
[Martin] Jose Ignacio Ramirez,
Director of Public Relations,
tasked with overseeing
the Estadio Azteca renovation project,
will be the one
to welcome us this afternoon,
allowing us to learn in detail
about the recent process
behind this undertaking.
[in Spanish] It's spectacular.
It's a new place
mixed with a lot of history.
It feels like a mythical place, right?
[Martin] Yes. It's a majestic place.
And now it's more beautiful
than it's ever been.
We have a capacity of 87,500.
It will be uncomfortable for our rivals.
But the local team
will feel the embrace of the fans.
It's not just another modern stadium.
-This stadium respects its own history.
-It's true to its essence.
What was the plan?
We have an integral remodel,
that counted on five or six projects.
First, we had to dig underground
about 14 meters.
That area was designated for locker rooms,
anti-doping offices, referees.
The second one where we are located.
The Inter.MX terrace.
This will be a social area
for about 800 fans.
On the other side,
you can see the presidential spots.
The fourth important project is the pitch.
We have the latest technology.
It has advanced ventilation,
drainage, and air injection systems.
We kept the essence of the old structure.
But we upgraded everything
that a modern world-class stadium needs.
We are ready to host world-class events.
[Martin] There is something
very interesting about this stadium.
It's huge, but it feels intimate.
Is it because of the roof?
[Jose] The stadium did not have
a roof when it opened.
It was added after.
It creates a limit. The roof makes
the place cozier and louder.
[Martin] Jose, what new things
-will fans experience here?
-[thrilling music playing]
[Jose] We are working
on a consumer network.
We will have an app where you will be able
to order food from your seat.
We will create an experience
that will make fans want to come back.
[Martin in English] The new LED screens
at the Azteca Stadium
is part of the tech renovation
of this building.
Look at these great boxes.
What are they?
They're access points to the Wi-Fi,
a new system that,
through an application,
the fans that come to watch the World Cup
will have the ability to order food,
for example, from their own seats.
[music concludes]
Wow, I get goosebumps
just walking down this tunnel.
This is called the Marathon Tunnel.
In 1970 or '86, Pele and Maradona
used to climb up this ramp
to play the final.
One of the main changes
of the renovation of the Azteca
was to change the tunnel to a modern
and new one for this World Cup.
[soft dramatic music playing]
[Martin] It is impossible
to analyze this renovation
without thinking of the past World Cups
held at this stadium.
[Jose in Spanish]
The tunnel is still being used.
We call it the Marathon tunnel.
But there is a tunnel that connects
the teams to their corresponding benches.
When you stand here, you think
about the best goal in World Cup history.
[echoing cheers]
[Martin] You think about Pele.
Pele scored right there.
[Martin] We see a lot of workers.
[Jose] Yes. We are working
on finalizing the details.
Everything will be perfect
for the World Cup.
It has been exhausting.
But it has been a wonderful experience.
I will always cherish
being a part of history.
[ethereal music playing]
[Martin in English] The Azteca Stadium
will host a total of five matches
during the upcoming World Cup.
The opening match will mark
the reunion, after 40 years,
of the World Cup and this iconic stadium.
It is very special
to be here at the Azteca.
The stadium has so much history,
from Pele to Maradona.
The only stadium, the first one,
to host a World Cup
for the third time and feeling it,
being sitting here
at the very top of the stadium
is a unique sensation.
[music swells]
[music falls]
[ethereal music continues]
[Martin] Dawn breaks
on the outskirts of Mexico City.
Venturing about 45 minutes northeast
of the sprawling metropolis,
we discover this marvel.
The prelude to a magical journey.
[in Spanish] We are going up.
This is a unique experience.
Where are we going?
[Desiree] We are going
to the City of the Gods.
Teotihuacán.
I wanted to bring you
on this hot air balloon ride,
so you can be able
to appreciate the pyramids.
It's simply spectacular.
As the balloon rises,
the pyramids reveal themselves.
It's impressive to see the sunrise.
You see the outlines of balloons
with the orange sun behind them.
It's so calm and peaceful.
[uplifting music playing]
[Martin in English]
We're flying over a unique site.
We're heading towards the City of Gods.
Welcome to Teotihuacán.
[music concludes]
[whistle blowing bird call]
[bird calling]
[Martin]
We have arrived at one of the most
significant archaeological sites
in the world.
Guided by the renowned archaeologist
Sergio Gomez,
we delve into this fascinating history.
[Sergio in Spanish]
We are in Teotihuacán,
This is one of the most important
places in Pre-Hispanic Mexico.
We believe the correct name
of Teotihuacán was Tollan Teotihuacán.
Tollan means "the sacred place."
And Teotihuacán translates to,
"The place where men become gods."
The entire city is a perfect orthogonal.
There are hundreds of streets and avenues.
We believe that 200,000 people
lived here at its peak.
In present time,
200,000 sounds like a small number.
Since we are used to millions.
But it was unique in those times.
Teotihuacán was the biggest city
in America.
[Martin in English] One of the most
important cities back in the day.
Two hundred thousand people
lived here in a huge site
that right now is able to visit, to enjoy,
and to understand Mexican culture.
Welcome to Teotihuacán, the City of Gods.
[ethereal music playing]
[Martin] A city developed
with brilliant astronomical precision
aligned with the cosmos
and agricultural cycles.
-[soft exciting music playing]
-[bird calling]
[Sergio] This is one of the biggest
buildings in Pre-Hispanic Mexico.
It is known as the Pyramid of the Sun.
It might be the most important
astronomical marker
ever built by humanity.
It measures 210 meters on each side.
It is 65 meters tall.
When I say
that it's an astronomy monument,
it's because once a year,
the sun rises exactly at the center.
[Martin in English] Although it's one
of the most studied archaeological sites,
Teotihuacán continues
to harbor great mysteries
regarding its original inhabitants,
their customs,
and the development of their spaces.
[Martin in Spanish] What is this place?
[Sergio] This represents Tlalocan.
It is a mythical place.
It is a place that shows
what happens after we die.
This mural is very special.
Because we can see
that people played with a ball.
The rules were
that you couldn't drop the ball.
And you couldn't touch
the ball with your hands.
You could only use
your hips and shoulders.
-That's really hard.
-You had to use protection.
Because the ball was so hard
that it could injure you.
[Martin in English]
A solid rubber ball,
weighing between six and 11 pounds.
According to studies, in this game,
the winner wasn't the one who scored,
but rather the one who prevented the ball
from hitting the ground.
Scoring a goal was considered a bad omen.
As we can see in this painting,
we can see some similarities
that remain today in a sport
that is completely different.
-[in Spanish] Are you up for it?
-Climb it?
-Of course.
-You think so?
-Yeah, let's go.
-Let's go.
[thrilling music playing]
[Martin in English]
The Pyramid of the Moon
once served
as a central hub for public rituals
and ceremonies dedicated
for fertility and water.
Today we face the beautiful challenge
of climbing it on foot.
[thrilling music continues]
It was worth climbing those steep stairs
to reach this point, to have this view.
Gives you an idea of the size of a city
that was one of the biggest
back in the day.
We continue
with the Last Train to North America.
[music fades]
[traffic honking]
[Martin]
We are in a typical street of Mexico City.
And we see a queue.
There's people waiting.
More people here.
More people here.
Now, the queue makes a left.
And we're gonna go the other way.
[upbeat music playing]
[Martin] A taqueria with a Michelin star.
A well-deserved accolade
for this city's gastronomy.
-Angel.
-[Angel in Spanish] Yes, tell me.
You have so many people waiting.
We are working very hard.
Why are tacos here so famous?
Our meat is of excellent quality.
We have ribs, steak,
pork chop and tenderloin.
We won our Michelin star
thanks to our rib and tenderloin tacos.
Those are our best ones.
Speaking of secrets,
the other taco stands
don't have someone making tortillas.
This lady makes magic.
Yes, it's made from a special corn.
It gives it a specific flavor.
The tortilla gives our meat
another flavor.
-[Martin] Can we try it?
-Go ahead.
[music concludes]
-Thank you.
-Thank you very much.
This is a special taco because you can see
that it's a clean taco.
The flavor comes
from the meat and the corn.
You can also add salsa,
but the lemon is always key in the taco.
[Martin] Let's try it. Bon appétit.
-Thank you.
-Enjoy.
[upbeat music playing]
[Martin] It is so good.
Wow. The tortilla is amazing.
It's delicious.
[Martin in English]
It is estimated that in Mexico City,
there is a taco stand or shop
every 400 meters,
making it the most accessible food source
in the city.
[upbeat music continues]
[Martin] To continue exploring
the popular traditions
that leave their unique mark on this city,
we simply couldn't pass up the chance
to visit its colorful masks.
-[in Spanish] Is this the one for Mistico?
-[vendor] Yes, it's Mistico.
-[Martin] Can I try it on?
-Yes.
[Martin] Thank you.
-Does "El Mistico" have different colors?
-[vendor] Yes. Various colors.
Which one is the traditional one?
The white one?
The white one is the classic one.
[Martin] There you go.
[upbeat music continues]
[Martin in English] Lucha libre,
or Mexican professional wrestling,
is a fundamental pillar
of the country's entertainment culture.
Today we will discover how the locals
experience this nightly show,
a performance steeped in rich tradition.
[music concludes]
[in Spanish] This is another world.
There are people screaming all over.
It's very colorful and noisy.
This is Mexican lucha libre.
What I love is that people
are really passionate about lucha libre.
You see them screaming.
You see them wearing the masks.
It's a part of their life.
[groovy music playing]
We are all fighters from birth in Mexico.
It's ingrained in our skin.
You choose which wrestling style you like.
Aggressive, technical, etc…
It's part of the Mexican culture.
[Martin] What happens in there?
It's pure passion.
You decompress. You scream.
It's an experience you have to live
at least once in your life.
[Martin in English] The Arena Mexico,
a cathedral for Mexican wrestling.
Lucha libre, as Mexicans call it,
is a way of life.
And this is where all happens,
where people gather, when they shout,
where they really feel
what Mexican culture is about.
Welcome to Mexico Arena.
Welcome to a very special night
of Mexican wrestling.
[uplifting music playing]
[Mistico in Spanish] Lucha libre
is magical. It connects with the fans.
The Luchador must make sure
that the fan is always enjoying.
Does anyone know your face?
No, I live a double life.
[Martin] A double life?
[Mistico] I am "El Mistico" in the ring.
Once I leave the arena,
I'm a normal person.
But when I put the mask back on,
I am a Luchador once again.
[uplifting music continues]
[music concludes]
[Martin in English]
Considered the greatest phenomenon
in modern Mexican lucha libre,
Mistico made his first appearance in 2004
and revitalized the sport.
Tonight, he returns to the grandest stage.
[crowd cheering and applauding]
[crowd chanting]
This is the moment
that everyone was expecting.
Hear the crowd.
The Mistico is right there in the ring.
[groovy music playing]
[crowd cheering and whistling]
[Martin] All kinds of characters,
exotic, technicians, brawlers.
There was no better way to wrap up
our visit to this city.
Mexican lucha libre is, without a doubt,
a fundamental expression
of Mexican folklore.
To understand this culture,
one must also experience these places.
[music concludes]
[Martin]
This was Last Train to North America.
See you at the next station.
[intriguing instrumental music playing]
[music concludes]