1986 World Cup Nearly Cancelled After Quake

The 1986 World Cup faced cancellation after a catastrophic earthquake hit Mexico City, leaving at least 5,000 dead and 30,000 homeless just months before the tournament was scheduled to begin. Much of the capital was flattened, raising serious doubts about Mexico's ability to host the finals. musojam.blog

Despite the disaster, Mexico ultimately hosted the World Cup as planned. The death toll from the earthquake remains disputed today, with some estimates putting the number as high as 40,000 casualties.