Mexico's President Guarantees Safety for 2026 World Cup Fans Amid Cartel Violence
Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum has emphatically declared there is "no risk" to international fans planning to attend the 2026 FIFA World Cup in Mexico, despite recent widespread cartel violence that erupted following the military killing of a powerful drug cartel leader. The president's assurances come as the country prepares to co-host the global football tournament alongside the United States and Canada.
Violence Erupts After Cartel Leader's Death
The security concerns emerged after Mexican military forces killed Nemesio Ruben Oseguera Cervantes, known as "El Mencho" and leader of the Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG), during an attempted arrest operation in Jalisco state on Sunday, February 22, 2026. The operation and subsequent retaliatory violence by cartel loyalists resulted in approximately 70 fatalities and forced several airlines to temporarily suspend flights to affected regions.
President Sheinbaum, Mexico's first female president and political protégé of former leader Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador, addressed reporters on February 24, stating that "all the guarantees" for fan safety were firmly in place. She emphasized that while the detention of a suspected criminal with an arrest warrant could generate temporary unrest, her administration was "looking for peace, not war."
World Cup Venues Remain Unchanged
Despite the violence, FIFA has confirmed that all three Mexican host cities for the 2026 World Cup will remain unchanged. Guadalajara, located in Jalisco state where the recent violence occurred, is scheduled to host four World Cup matches, while Mexico City and Monterrey will host the remaining fixtures.
Jalisco Governor Pablo Lemus reassured the public, stating: "There is absolutely no intention on FIFA's part to remove any venues from Mexico. The three venues remain completely firm." FIFA President Gianni Infantino expressed confidence in Mexico's hosting capabilities, telling reporters he was feeling "very calm" about the situation and predicting that "everything is going to be spectacular."
Security Strategy Under Scrutiny
President Sheinbaum has largely continued her predecessor's "hugs not bullets" approach to security, which focuses on addressing poverty and root causes of violence rather than direct military confrontation with cartels. During her daily press conference, she reported that the situation was stabilizing, with security forces actively working to protect the public.
Security analysts note that arrests of other cartel leaders in recent years have similarly sparked violent retaliation, including widespread shootouts and vehicles set ablaze. The timing of this latest violence—just four months before the start of what will be the largest World Cup in history—has raised significant questions about Mexico's ability to ensure safety during the tournament.
FIFA Monitoring Situation Closely
A FIFA spokesperson confirmed the organization is closely monitoring the security situation in Mexico and maintaining regular contact with Mexican authorities. The 2026 World Cup will be the first to feature 48 teams and will be hosted across 16 cities in three North American countries, making it the most expansive tournament in FIFA history.
President Sheinbaum's assurances come as Mexico prepares to welcome thousands of international visitors for the tournament, with the government implementing enhanced security measures specifically designed for World Cup events. The president emphasized that her administration remains committed to providing a safe environment for all participants and spectators attending the global sporting event.
