1. Boca Juniors vs. River Plate, Argentina
Almost every country with a soccer league has a clásico, a name reserved for the biggest rivalry. However, only one country boasts a superclásico, and it has earned that name for a reason.
In a world filled with club rivalries, the one between Boca Juniors and River Plate stands as perhaps the fiercest, with every match being of critical importance to their devoted fans. Based just minutes apart in Buenos Aires, these clubs collectively hold 69 domestic titles and 10 South American championships.
What truly sets this rivalry apart is the passion of the fans. Although Argentina’s top-level soccer league, the Primera División, features 24 teams, around 70 percent of the nation’s fans rally behind either Boca Juniors or River Plate. These supporters fill the stands at La Bombonera and El Monumental, cheering and chanting with such fervor that the stadiums shake as if hit by a powerful earthquake. (Seriously.)
Experience it: The Argentine Primera División is almost a year-round event. The current season started in July and will conclude in May. For visitors, purchasing tickets for Boca Juniors and River Plate home matches can be challenging; the clubs often restrict sales for safety reasons. Therefore, collaborating with a tour agency that provides ticket access and organizes stadium transportation is the best approach.
2. Lucha Libre, Mexico City
Lucha Libre, or freestyle wrestling, is an exhilarating blend of sport and theater that presents a whirlwind of spectacle.
This unique wrestling style combines mythology, rivalry, and athleticism, becoming a vital part of Mexico City’s cultural landscape. Wrestlers, known as luchadores, don masks and create elaborate backstories, engaging in choreographed matches for their character’s honor.
For a luchador, wearing a mask symbolizes their identity. A loss can lead to losing the persona they have cultivated over the years. With fast-paced, nonstop action, Lucha Libre continues to gain popularity beyond Mexico and is significantly influencing WWE in the United States, yet there’s nothing quite like the original.
Experience it: Catch a match at Arena México or Arena Coliseo, two historic venues in Mexico City that regularly host Lucha Libre matches.
3. Copa América
Fútbol is the world’s most popular sport, and Copa América stands as one of its premier events.
Every two years, the ten member nations of the South American Football Confederation engage in a month-long tournament to crown the continental champion. Initially played in 1916, each match is infused with a century’s worth of on- and off-field competition.
Rivalries abound, such as Argentina vs. Uruguay, the world’s most-played international rivalry, and the intense matches between Chile and Peru. A particularly memorable encounter was Argentina vs. Brazil, where both sides have often done whatever it takes to seize an edge.
No matter which game you attend, you’ll witness some of the globe’s finest soccer players competing fiercely for their nation’s pride.
Experience it: The upcoming 2024 Copa América will be co-hosted by Colombia and Argentina. Consequently, it is advisable to start making plans early to secure your spot at this stellar event.
4. Tigres del Licey vs. Aguilas Cibaeñas, Dominican Republic
The Dominican Professional Baseball League is unparalleled in its depth of talent.
The Dominican Republic produces a remarkable number of current and future baseball stars. Whereas baseball is considered America’s favorite pastime in the United States, it equally permeates the social fabric of the Caribbean nation.
Natural rivals, Tigres del Licey and Aguilas Cibaeñas, are among the league’s most successful teams. The intensity of their matchups is reminiscent of famed competitions like the New York Yankees versus the Boston Red Sox.
The atmosphere is festive, with alcohol flowing, bands performing, and dancers keeping the energy high. Thus, when these rivals meet on the field, it is a must-see event.
Experience it: The Dominican Professional Baseball League season runs from October through January.
5. The Pan American Games
Every four years, elite athletes from across the Americas gather for the Pan American Games—a mini-Olympics representing North and South America.
Since its inception in 1951, the Pan American Games have fostered pride among smaller nations that may lack visibility in the Olympics.
The games typically commence with a torch relay and an opening ceremony, followed by a diverse range of competitions, including artistic swimming, archery, water skiing, and wrestling.
These events also catalyze the growth of women’s sports in Latin America. For instance, following Andrea Vargas’ gold medal triumph in the 100-meter hurdles for Costa Rica, widespread media coverage led to governmental investment in modern training facilities in her hometown.
Experience it: While the 2019 Pan American Games concluded in August, it is time to prepare for the 2023 Games in Santiago, Chile.
