Mexico President Guarantees 2026 World Cup Safety Despite Cartel Violence
President Sheinbaum assures fans there is no threat to World Cup matches in Mexico
- President Claudia Sheinbaum confirmed there is “no risk” to fans and visitors attending matches in Mexico
- Recent violence in Jalisco and surrounding areas included roadblocks, arson, and clashes
- Despite the upheaval, Mexico will host 13 of the 104 tournament games
Mexico’s President Claudia Sheinbaum has assured fans and visitors that the 2026 FIFA World Cup will proceed safely, despite recent cartel-related unrest.
Her statements followed the capture and death of notorious cartel leader Nemesio Oseguera Cervantes, also known as “El Mencho,” which triggered roadblocks, arson, and violent clashes in Jalisco and surrounding regions.
Sheinbaum emphasized there is “no risk” to World Cup attendees, with matches scheduled in Mexico City, Monterrey, and Guadalajara. FIFA confirmed it is closely monitoring the situation and coordinating with authorities to maintain public safety and restore normalcy.
Local football leagues temporarily halted fixtures in response to the unrest, but the President highlighted that security forces have cleared roadblocks and conditions are stabilizing. Sheinbaum stressed that her administration’s focus remains on peace and addressing the root causes of violence rather than escalating tensions.
Mexico is set to host 13 of the tournament’s 104 matches, including four in Guadalajara and several warm-up games leading up to the June 11 kickoff. The incidents highlight the country’s ongoing struggle with cartel violence, even as it prepares to welcome the world to a shared North American spotlight with the US and Canada.
