AKRON Stadium continues to strengthen its position as one of the most important and modern sports venues on the continent after earning the LEED Operations & Maintenance (O+M) Gold certification, one of the world's most prestigious recognitions for sustainability and building operations, awarded by the U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC).
Unlike certifications that focus solely on the design or construction of a building, LEED O+M evaluates the performance of facilities that are already in operation, verifying that their day-to-day practices meet international standards for sustainability, efficiency and continuous improvement.
To earn this distinction, AKRON Stadium underwent a rigorous evaluation that assessed multiple areas of environmental and operational performance, including energy efficiency, water consumption and responsible water management, comprehensive waste management, sustainable purchasing, mobility and transportation, indoor environmental quality, sustainable cleaning practices, facility maintenance, and carbon emissions reduction strategies.
This certification goes beyond evaluating the building's physical infrastructure, as it also considers how the venue is managed and operated on a daily basis. As a result, the assessment included internal processes, management policies, resource consumption monitoring, staff training, and measurable sustainability outcomes.
This recognition is the result of a comprehensive improvement strategy implemented in preparation for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, during which our venue was recognized as one of the tournament's premier host stadiums. Key initiatives included the modernization of the playing surface to meet FIFA Quality PRO standards, certification as a Cardio-Protected Venue, technological upgrades to enhance the fan experience, the addition of inclusive spaces such as the Sensory Room, improvements to premium areas, and several projects focused on sustainability and operational efficiency.
This prestigious distinction reaffirms the commitment of Club Deportivo Guadalajara to providing modern facilities that meet the highest international standards, further establishing AKRON Stadium as a world-class venue prepared to host major international events while delivering an exceptional experience for every fan who visits La Casa de los Mexicanos.
