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Puerto Vallarta unveiled six of 16 giant artist-designed soccer ball sculptures Tuesday, June 16, 2026, launching the “Balones del Mundo” (Balls of the World) exhibition to celebrate Mexico’s role as a host of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Puerto Vallarta Tourism Director Alejandra Cornejo led the ceremony outside City Hall to debut the “Balones del Mundo” where she and local officials unveiled six of 16 monumental soccer ball sculptures. Each piece measures approximately 3 feet (1 meter) in diameter and has been artistically customized. The sculptures will be installed across the city in the coming days for residents and tourists to enjoy.
Officials said the project aims to enhance the city’s urban landscape, foster local identity, and boost Puerto Vallarta’s international profile during the global soccer tournament.
Inmates at the Costa Norte Regional Integrated Justice Center (Ixtapa Prison) manufactured the monumental structures using steel frames and wire hoops, which were covered in a papier-mâché mixture of newspaper, industrial adhesive, and blended paper. Local fine artists and students from the Universidad De la Vera-Cruz then painted and decorated the sculptures.
“We are joining this global celebration through art and creativity,” Cornejo said. “This exhibition is an expression of Puerto Vallarta’s identity, history, traditions, and culture to Mexico and the world.”
“Balones del Mundo” will be displayed at high-traffic locations, including the Malecón boardwalk, Marina Vallarta, and the Licenciado Gustavo Díaz Ordaz International Airport.
Photos by Christian Velasco and Puerto Vallarta’s Government Communications Office.
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