Following a worrying wave of violence, Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum issued a strong message of reassurance to the international community and football fans on Tuesday, affirming “full guarantees” for the safety of fans and participating teams during the 2026 World Cup, which will be hosted by Guadalajara. These statements come at a crucial time to quell concerns raised by recent security challenges in the country.
Sheinbaum emphasized that there is “no danger” to fans who will flock to the city in June for the four World Cup matches. She affirmed that federal and local authorities have taken all necessary proactive measures to ensure the safety and security of all visitors, in an effort to restore confidence ahead of the world’s premier sporting event.
Context of events and background of violence
The Mexican president's reassurances came as a direct response to widespread violence that erupted following the killing of Nemesio Oseguera, known as "El Mencho," the leader of the Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG), one of Mexico's most powerful and violent criminal organizations. El Mencho, one of the most wanted men in Mexico and the United States, was killed in a military operation about 130 kilometers from Guadalajara. In retaliation, the cartel launched violent attacks, leading to bloody clashes with security forces that left at least 57 people dead, including soldiers and cartel members. The violence included blocking major highways in 20 states and setting fire to buses and shops, paralyzing parts of the country and forcing the suspension of local soccer matches in Guadalajara and the neighboring state of Querétaro.
The importance of the World Cup and its impact on Mexico
Hosting the 2026 FIFA World Cup, in partnership with the United States and Canada, is an event of major strategic importance for Mexico. This will be the third time the country has hosted the tournament (after 1970 and 1986), placing it among the few nations to have had this honor. Domestically, the World Cup represents a tremendous economic opportunity, boosting tourism, developing infrastructure, and creating jobs. Internationally, successfully organizing a safe and smooth event will enhance Mexico's image and standing on the world stage. Therefore, any security incidents would not only threaten the safety of visitors but also the country's international reputation and the investments associated with the tournament. For this reason, President Sheinbaum's statements carry significant weight, as FIFA and the participating federations are closely monitoring the situation.
