Mexico World Cup 2026: Sheinbaum Insists Games are Safe Despite Cartel Violence
Mexico Insists World Cup Will Be Safe Despite Recent Cartel Violence
Mexico’s president, Claudia Sheinbaum, has affirmed that the country is prepared to safely host matches for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, despite a recent surge in violence following the death of a prominent cartel leader. Sheinbaum stated on Tuesday that there are “all the guarantees” in place for the tournament, which will be co-hosted with the United States and Canada.
The violence erupted on Sunday after Mexican military forces attempted to detain Nemesio Oseguera Cervantes, known as “El Mencho,” the leader of the Jalisco New Generation Cartel, during a dawn raid. A firefight ensued, and Oseguera Cervantes died while being transported to a hospital.
In response to El Mencho’s death, cartel members blocked nearly 100 major roads and attacked national guard bases, particularly in the states of Jalisco and Michoacán. The clashes resulted in at least 25 deaths among security forces and 34 fatalities among cartel members.
By Monday, the immediate violence had subsided, though local media reported continued episodes of unrest in several rural municipalities within Jalisco state overnight.
Guadalajara, the capital of Jalisco, is scheduled to host four World Cup games this summer. Matches are also planned for Mexico City and Monterrey, including events at the iconic Azteca stadium.
Speaking at her daily press conference, Sheinbaum reiterated the government’s commitment to ensuring the safety of the World Cup. “Little by little the situation [in Jalisco] is returning to normal,” she said.
FIFA President Gianni Infantino echoed Sheinbaum’s confidence, telling the AFP news agency on Tuesday that he was “very reassured” about Mexico’s ability to host the tournament. “Everything’s good. It’s going to be spectacular,” Infantino stated from Barranquilla, Colombia.
The assurances come as Guadalajara and the resort city of Puerto Vallarta gradually reopen following disruptions caused by Sunday’s violence.
Sheinbaum also indicated she is considering legal action against tech billionaire Elon Musk, who alleged on Monday that she takes direction from drug traffickers. Musk’s claim, posted on X (formerly Twitter), referenced a 2025 video of Sheinbaum discussing cartel violence and asserted she was “saying what her cartel bosses tell her to say.”
In the referenced video, Sheinbaum argued against a return to a “war on drugs,” stating, “The war against the narco is outside of the law…because It’s permission to kill without any trial.”
Sheinbaum differentiated the recent operation targeting El Mencho from previous security policies, explaining, “A situation arose in which, during the arrest of a member of an organised crime group who had an arrest warrant out against him, members of the army were attacked and responded, and he died during transport.” She added, “We’re looking for peace, not war. That is the difference.”
The events raise concerns about the potential for further instability, as the targeting of cartel leaders has historically led to fragmentation within criminal organizations and increased violence as rival factions vie for control. However, Sheinbaum’s administration maintains its focus on addressing the root causes of violence and pursuing a path towards peace.