The First Ball Game
An Exhibit Celebrating North American
Nations & Cultures Coming Together
kick off your summer
with an unforgettable
cultural experience
As one of the world’s largest sporting events takes center stage across North America in 2026, the cities of Guadalajara, Atlanta and Toronto will also host an international celebration of sport, culture and history — the Olmec Cup.
Honoring the Olmec civilization as the Mother Culture of Mesoamerica, Olmec Cup unites North American countries and cultures during one of the world’s biggest global events, offering visitors a chance to experience “the first ball game” like never before.
get ready
to experience
the first ball game
The Olmecs were the first to develop the rubber technology needed to create the ball and, in turn, establish the world’s first team ball game. Much like football today, this ancient game was far more than a sport – it was a cornerstone of the Mesoamerican worldview, symbolizing life, death and renewal.
By honoring the Olmec civilization – creators of the first known ball game more than 3,000 years ago – the Olmec Cup brings ancient history to life, bridging one of the earliest origins of sport with the global spirit of modern soccer.
discover a special lineup
of talented international artists
In the streets of Guadalajara, Atlanta, and Toronto, three colossal fiberglass inspired heads stand as modern monuments. These are not static relics; they are living canvases. To bring this legacy into the present, three distinct artists representing their countries hosting the games have been commissioned to weave the story of their heritage and the Mexican diaspora into the fabric of these global cities.
Rey Trigueros
In Guadalajara, artist Rey Trigueros presents “Reevolution of Origin,” capturing the unbroken spirit of the land where these traditions began and honoring the continuous line of ancestral identity.
Pato Muñoz Vázquez
In Atlanta, Mexican-American artist Pato Muñoz Vázquez presents “Our Ancestors Dreamed Us,” illustrating how heritage thrives, adapts, and blooms beautifully within the cultural tapestry of the United States.
Jesus Mora
In Toronto, Mexican-Canadian artist Jesus Mora presents “Space Facing Time,” telling the story of the diaspora’s northernmost reach and marking the enduring, resilient presence of Mexican identity in Canada.
applaud our supporters
spanning across the continent
The Olmec Cup extends the legacy of the Mexican Cultural Center DuPage’s acclaimed Olmec Origins traveling exhibit, furthering its mission through public art and cultural engagement.
For additional information about Olmec Origins, please contact Fernando Ramirez, President of the Mexican Cultural Center DuPage, at fernando.mccdupage@gmail.com.
