Toca Football, a technology-enabled soccer experience company, has teamed up with Ventura Entertainment to take its Toca Social entertainment venues to Mexico.
Toca's first attraction in Mexico will open this year, with seven additional sites to launch before the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Over the next 10 years, Toca and Ventura plan to open at least 20 Toca Social venues in the country with an investment of more than $100 million.
"Mexicohas a strong and embedded soccer culture – and we are delighted to bring Toca Social, the world's first interactive soccer entertainment experience, to this vibrant and important market," saidYoshi Maruyama, CEO of Toca Football.
Toca Football's first franchising deal
"We are privileged to be partnering with Ventura Entertainment, which has a proven track record of delivering great guest experiences to expand Toca's brand inMexico."
Dubbed theTopgolfof soccer, Toca Football has two businesses – Toca Soccer and Toca Social. The former operates innovative soccer training centres across North America.
Toca Social is the world’s first entertainment and dining concept featuring immersive soccer-based games. Its first venue opened in August 2021 at London's O2.
"Toca Social in the UK is a great success, and bringing our venues to more communities around the world is very exciting," saidErik Anderson, Toca's co-chairman.
Ventura Entertainment operates attractions such as theme parks, water parks, aquariums and family entertainment centres in Mexico. It is also the exclusive franchisor of Mexico's Topgolf.
Javier Molinar, executive chairman of Ventura Entertainment, said Toca Social will be "very successful" in Mexico due to the country's "huge fanbase and enthusiasm for football amongst all demographics".
"We are continuously searching for innovative and technological-driven concepts around the world," added Guido Benassini, CEO of Ventura Entertainment.
Toca recently announced a 10-year partnership with Major League Soccer (MLS). The two companies will develop branded games forToca Socialvenues.
Images: Toca Football
Jade Craig
