Why is a Mexican wave transverse?

Answer 1

The people move up and down whereas the wave travels around the stadium or arena - at right angles to the people'm movement.

Answer 2

A Mexican wave is considered a transverse wave because the motion of the wave is perpendicular to the direction of energy transfer. In a Mexican wave, the spectators stand and raise their arms in sequence, creating a wave-like effect that moves around the stadium horizontally.