FIFA President Gianni Infantino says he is very reassured about Mexico’s readiness to host 2026 World Cup matches despite a wave of cartel violence that shocked the country this week.
Speaking in Barranquilla, Colombia, he described the tournament as “spectacular” and said everything is on track, even after deadly unrest linked to the killing of Jalisco New Generation Cartel leader Nemesio “El Mencho” Oseguera. Cartel gunmen went on a rampage in several states, including host city Guadalajara, blocking roads and burning vehicles and businesses.
At least 74 people were killed during the operation to capture Oseguera near Guadalajara and in subsequent clashes between security forces and suspected cartel members, according to the Mexican government. Only one of those killed was reported as a civilian, but residents and tourists described scenes that felt like a war zone.
Images of the violence, coming less than four months before the World Cup kicks off on June 11, raised fresh questions about security around the tournament. FIFA declined to comment on Monday, but Infantino’s remarks are the first public signal from the governing body since the unrest.
Not everyone shares his optimism. The Portuguese Football Federation said it is closely monitoring the delicate situation in Mexico as it considers whether to proceed with a planned friendly in Mexico City on March 29. It stressed that the safety of players, staff and fans will be the decisive factor.
Mexico national team coach Javier Aguirre said preparations are continuing as planned. President Claudia Sheinbaum also insisted there is no risk to World Cup fans and said security conditions are gradually returning to normal.
Guadalajara, capital of Jalisco state, is due to host four group stage games, including a high profile clash between Uruguay and Spain. The city will also co host, with Monterrey, a playoff tournament at the end of March to decide the final two World Cup berths.
Mexico City and Monterrey, which were not directly affected by the latest unrest, will stage additional matches. Jalisco governor Pablo Lemus has ruled out any possibility that Guadalajara will be dropped as a host city, insisting there is absolutely no risk of changes to the venue lineup.
All eyes will now turn to the central state of Queretaro, where Mexico are set to play Iceland in a friendly on Wednesday, in what is likely to be an early test of match day security ahead of the World Cup.
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