FIFA President Gianni Infantino expressed complete confidence in Mexico's ability to co-host the 2026 World Cup despite recent cartel violence following the death of drug lord Nemesio 'El Mencho' Oseguera Cervantes. Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum thanked FIFA for the backing and assured no risk to visitors. The unrest has led to postponed soccer matches, but upcoming World Cup qualifiers in Mexico remain on schedule.
The killing of Jalisco New Generation Cartel leader Nemesio “El Mencho” Oseguera Cervantes by the Mexican army on Sunday, February 22, 2026, triggered widespread violence across multiple states. Cartel members burned vehicles, blocked roads, and clashed with authorities, resulting in at least 70 deaths, including 25 National Guard members. This unrest prompted the postponement of several domestic soccer matches, including one in Querétaro.
On Wednesday, February 25, 2026, Mexico's men's national team defeated Iceland 4-0 in a friendly match at Corregidora Stadium in Querétaro. Prior to kickoff, a tribute to the armed forces was held, which President Claudia Sheinbaum described as “very moving” during her Thursday mañanera press conference. She highlighted the emotional support for the military since the operation.
Addressing concerns over the violence's impact on the 2026 FIFA World Cup, co-hosted by Mexico, the United States, and Canada, Infantino spoke in Miami on February 25. He stated, “We have complete confidence in Mexico, in its president, Claudia Sheinbaum, and in the authorities, and we are convinced that everything will go as smoothly as possible.” Infantino added that FIFA is monitoring the situation but emphasized, “Nobody has to move anything,” regarding the schedule, which includes 13 matches in Mexico.
Sheinbaum reiterated that security is guaranteed for World Cup venues in Mexico City, Guadalajara, and Monterrey, with no risk to tourists. The tournament opens on June 11 at Estadio Azteca in Mexico City with Mexico versus South Africa. Upcoming qualifiers, such as intercontinental playoffs on March 26 in Guadalajara and Monterrey, will proceed as planned.
While the Colombian Soccer Federation expressed confidence that Mexico will overcome the issues quickly, the Portuguese and Jamaican federations voiced concerns about their March friendlies and playoffs in Mexico. Sheinbaum stressed Mexico's commitment to protecting lives, rejecting notions of acceptable collateral damage.
