In late 1982, Colombia gave up hosting the 1986 World Cup. Its president, Belisario Betancur, announced: “Anuncio a mis compatriotas que el Mundial de Fútbol 1986 no se hará en Colombia” (I announce to my compatriots that the 1986 World Cup will not be held in Colombia). On May 20, 1983, the Executive Committee of FIFA chose Mexico in its place, unanimously.
In September 1985, a powerful earthquake struck Mexico City. Inspections found no serious damage to the stadiums, and “la decisión fue seguir adelante y mantener a México como sede” (the decision was to go ahead and keep Mexico as host).