Mexican officials, led by Security Minister Omar García Harfuch, met FIFA representatives on March 4, 2026, to review security protocols for the 2026 World Cup amid recent violence concerns. The government denied FIFA hotel cancellations, attributing changes to routine procedures, as preparations advance for 13 matches and up to 5 million visitors.
On March 4, 2026, Mexico's security cabinet convened with FIFA officials at the Security Ministry headquarters in Mexico City to outline intelligence protocols, prevention measures, and operational deployments for the 2026 FIFA Men's World Cup, co-hosted with the United States and Canada. The meeting, directed by President Claudia Sheinbaum, included key figures such as Security Minister Omar García Harfuch, Interior Minister Rosa Icela Rodríguez Velázquez, Defense Minister Ricardo Trevilla, Foreign Affairs Minister Juan Ramón de la Fuente, World Cup coordinator Gabriela Cuevas, and FIFA chief tournament officer Jurgen Mainka. Additional participants were Admiral Raymundo Pedro Morales Ángeles from the Navy Secretariat and Undersecretary Roberto Velasco.
Mexico will host 13 matches across Mexico City (Estadio Azteca), Guadalajara, and Monterrey, including the tournament opener on June 11 (Mexico vs. South Africa) and Uruguay vs. Spain on June 26 in Guadalajara. Authorities expect up to 5 million visitors during the five-week event.
The discussions addressed safety guarantees following recent cartel violence in Jalisco after the operation killing Nemesio Oseguera 'El Mencho.' Sheinbaum affirmed on February 24 that there is 'no risk' to tourists or matches, including in Guadalajara. FIFA President Gianni Infantino expressed 'full trust' in Mexican authorities, praising the nation as a football powerhouse.
On March 5, Cuevas refuted Mexico City Hotel Association reports of FIFA canceling 800 of 2,000 reserved rooms (40%), clarifying that reservations were 'released' after a two-year deadline as standard procedure. She noted record tourism levels, high demand for Mexican matches, and urged early bookings.
The Security Ministry highlighted inter-institutional coordination, streamlined visas, and immigration processes. FIFA appreciated the venue security efforts. Additional preparations include the 'México Vibra' festival on June 9-10 at the Auditorio Nacional and Mexicana de Aviación's request for charter flight permits to U.S. host cities. Mexico, hosting for the third time, reiterated commitment to a seamless tournament.
