Mexico's president has declared there is "no risk" to fans attending the 2026 FIFA World Cup, despite recent cartel violence. President Claudia Sheinbaum confirmed all safety measures are in place for the tournament, for which Mexico will host 13 matches.
The violence erupted following the military killing of Nemesio Ruben Oseguera Cervantes, the founder of the Jalisco New Generation Cartel, in Jalisco state. The operation and subsequent unrest resulted in approximately 70 deaths and led some airlines to suspend flights.
Guadalajara, a designated World Cup host city, along with Mexico City and Monterrey, will proceed with their scheduled matches. FIFA President Gianni Infantino expressed confidence in Mexico's ability to host, stating, "Everything is going to be spectacular."
President Sheinbaum emphasized that the situation is normalizing and security forces are active. She reiterated Mexico's commitment to peace over conflict, maintaining its strategy of addressing poverty as a root cause of violence.