FIFA President Addresses Whether Cartel Violence in Mexico Will Affect the Upcoming World Cup

As the countdown to the 2026 FIFA World Cup begins, Mexico is gearing up to co-host the prestigious tournament alongside the United States and Canada. The event, set to commence in June, will see matches held in three Mexican cities: Guadalajara, Monterrey, and Mexico City. However, underlying concerns regarding safety and security have arisen due to recent violence attributed to local drug cartels.

Following a significant military operation against the Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG), which resulted in the death of cartel leader Nemesio “El Mencho” Oseguera Cervantes, violence erupted across the country. Reports indicate that at least 70 individuals have lost their lives in the aftermath of this operation, prompting the United States Embassy and Consulates in Mexico to issue a shelter-in-place warning. This precautionary measure was lifted shortly thereafter, on February 25.

FIFA President Gianni Infantino addressed these concerns during a press conference held in Colombia on February 24. He reassured attendees that there were currently no plans to alter the schedule or relocate any events. “Of course, we are monitoring the situation in Mexico these days, but I want to say from the outset that we have complete confidence in Mexico, its president Claudia Sheinbaum, and in the authorities,” Infantino remarked. His comments reflect FIFA’s belief that local governments will ensure the safety and security necessary for the tournament to proceed smoothly.

The World Cup will feature 13 matches in Mexico, commencing with an opening showdown between Mexico and South Africa on June 11. Infantino’s confidence was echoed by Ramón Jesurún, the president of the Colombian Soccer Federation, who expressed optimism about the tournament moving forward without incident. Jesurún stated, “We know they will overcome this and move forward.”

Nonetheless, not all national affiliates share the same level of certainty. Michael Ricketts, the president of the Jamaican Soccer Federation, voiced concern and indicated that they would closely monitor the situation leading up to an intercontinental playoff semifinal scheduled in Mexico in March. Ricketts noted the importance of taking guidance from FIFA and CONCACAF regarding the need for any potential contingency plans.

Reports have surfaced suggesting that internal sentiments within FIFA were troubled by the recent upheaval in Mexico. An anonymous insider revealed to The Athletic that concerns were prevalent at the organisation, but as the situation evolved, confidence appeared to stabilize. A FIFA spokesperson later remarked that the organisation maintains “full confidence” in the host countries and is actively monitoring developments in Jalisco.

In light of these events, FIFA has focused on collaboration with various levels of government in Mexico to ensure public safety and restore a sense of normalcy ahead of the tournament. The organisation underscored that preparations for the World Cup have been treated as a matter of national importance in Mexico, indicating a robust level of resource allocation towards the planning and execution of the event.

While FIFA remains steadfast in its commitment to host the World Cup as scheduled, the broader implications of cartel violence in the region have sparked discussions about the potential risks associated with such a large-scale international event. The safety of players, officials, and fans has become an increasingly prominent topic as the tournament draws nearer.

As anticipation builds for the matches, stakeholders across the globe will be keenly observing developments in Mexico. The success of the World Cup will not only depend on the quality of football on display but also on the ability of local authorities and FIFA to ensure a safe environment for all participants. As the tournament approaches, it has become a defining moment for both Mexico and the world of football, with the spotlight firmly fixed on the outcome of events in the months ahead.