FIFA President Gianni Infantino has expressed strong confidence in Mexico’s ability to host World Cup matches safely despite recent cartel-related violence that shook the nation. In his first public comments following the deadly unrest triggered by the killing of Jalisco New Generation Cartel leader Nemesio ‘El Mencho’ Oseguera, Infantino told AFP he felt “very reassured” about security preparations for the tournament.
The violence erupted after Mexican military forces killed Oseguera during a raid at a ranch near Guadalajara, one of three Mexican host cities for the 2026 World Cup. The operation and subsequent clashes resulted in at least 74 fatalities, primarily cartel members and security forces, with only one civilian casualty reported according to government accounts. Cartel gunmen responded with widespread retaliation, blocking highways across 20 states and setting vehicles and businesses ablaze.
Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum joined Infantino in assuring international visitors, stating there is “no risk” to World Cup fans and that normalcy is gradually returning. Jalisco Governor Pablo Lemus further emphasized that Guadalajara’s status as a host city remains secure, dismissing any possibility of venue changes due to security concerns.
The economic impact of the violence extended beyond tourism as Japanese automaker Honda temporarily suspended operations at its Guadalajara assembly plant as a precautionary measure. Mexico serves as a critical automotive manufacturing hub for numerous global brands including Ford, General Motors, BMW, and Audi.
Guadalajara is scheduled to host four group-stage matches, including a highly anticipated encounter between Uruguay and Spain, plus co-host qualification playoffs with Monterrey in March. Mexico City and Monterrey, which were unaffected by the recent violence, will also host matches during the tournament running from June 11 to July 19 across Mexico, the United States, and Canada.