Mexican officials and FIFA continue to affirm security for the 2026 World Cup's Mexican host cities following last week's cartel violence after El Mencho's death. Experts speculate on a possible truce, while some teams express relocation concerns and US co-hosts detail federal support without ICE involvement.
The violence sparked by the Mexican military's killing of Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG) leader Nemesio Oseguera Cervantes, alias El Mencho, on February 22 has spread to 20 states, including near World Cup venues like Guadalajara and Monterrey, with vehicle burnings, roadblocks, and dozens of deaths. This follows initial unrest that prompted soccer match postponements, as previously reported.
President Claudia Sheinbaum, building on her prior statements, reiterated at a recent press conference that 'every guarantee' exists for Mexico's six host cities—Mexico City (five matches), Guadalajara and Monterrey (four each)—insisting, 'There is no risk.' FIFA President Gianni Infantino echoed this with 'total confidence' in Mexico's authorities, noting their role in maintaining order.
Security analysts offered mixed views on cartel behavior. Dr. Raul Benítez predicted the CJNG might enact a temporary truce during the tournament to evade scrutiny, similar to El Salvador's 2010s gang pauses. However, former U.S. DEA chief Ray Donovan was skeptical, citing leadership voids after El Mencho's death and his son 'El Menchito's' U.S. incarceration, and Sheinbaum's rule-of-law focus.
National teams from Jamaica, Bolivia, and Portugal have raised private concerns about Mexican matches, suggesting relocations. One casualty was a diving competition near Guadalajara, canceled due to embassy restrictions. Mexico still eyes five million visitors and major economic gains.
Across the border, Inglewood Mayor James T. Butts Jr. announced federal assistance for eight matches at SoFi Stadium, drawing from experience with major concerts, but confirmed no Immigration and Customs Enforcement role. In contrast, Foxboro, Massachusetts, officials mulled withdrawing over unfunded security costs from DHS and FEMA.
