FIFA President Gianni Infantino has unequivocally expressed his strong confidence that Mexico will smoothly proceed with its role as a co-host for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. This assurance comes despite the nation currently grappling with a severe wave of violence, predominantly fueled by organized drug trafficking gangs.
The head of global football’s governing body appears unfazed by recent events, specifically the high-profile killing of a powerful drug trafficking leader, which triggered widespread unrest across Mexico. This turmoil was particularly acute near Guadalajara, a city designated to host multiple World Cup matches. Infantino, contrary to potential concerns, maintained his belief that the preparations in Mexico would continue without hindrance.
During a brief statement regarding the situation, delivered in Barranquilla, Colombia, Infantino affirmed, “I am very confident. Everything will be fine, and it will be a very special and wonderful competition.” His remarks were made just two days after the death of Nemesio Oseguera Cervantes, widely known as “El Mencho.” The 59-year-old leader of the powerful Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG) reportedly succumbed to injuries while in prison, following a high-stakes operation by Mexican special forces in the Pacific coastal region of Jalisco state. The intense pursuit of the drug lord near Guadalajara, where he was protected by a substantial private security detail and numerous gang members, tragically resulted in at least 74 fatalities.
In the aftermath of El Mencho’s death, his associates instigated widespread protests and various acts of violence. These included the arson of vehicles and the establishment of road blockades across approximately ten Mexican states. A significant concentration of these violent demonstrations by drug trafficking groups occurred near Guadalajara, further emphasizing the direct proximity of the unrest to a crucial World Cup host city.
The escalating unrest has had immediate and tangible consequences for the footballing landscape in Mexico. It has not only significantly impacted international matches slated for Mexican soil but has also compelled the suspension of domestic league games. On February 23, the Mexican football league utilized its social media platforms to announce the indefinite postponement of four men’s and women’s matches. Furthermore, an international friendly between Mexico and Iceland, originally scheduled for February 26 at Corregidora Stadium in Querétaro, was officially canceled by the Mexican Football Federation.
Despite these challenges, national federations, such as the Portuguese Football Federation, whose teams are planning friendly matches in Mexico as part of their 2026 World Cup preparations, are closely monitoring the evolving security situation. Adding to the reassurances, Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum has publicly guaranteed that the violence following the drug leader’s death poses no major risk to the country. She expressed firm conviction that the situation would swiftly return to normalcy.
