Mexico's role as co-host of next summer's World Cup has come under scrutiny after a wave of violent unrest followed the killing of a prominent drug lord. FIFA has responded by expressing confidence in the country's security planning, while closely monitoring the situation.
Nemesio Ruben Oseguera Cervantes, known as 'El Mencho', was killed in an army operation in the western state of Jalisco on Sunday. He led the Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG), one of Mexico's most powerful criminal organisations. His death sparked violence that has spread across more than a dozen states, with armed groups setting up roadblocks and setting cars and public buildings alight.
More than 70 people have been killed in the operation and subsequent violence, including suspected cartel members, National Guard personnel, and civilians. Guadalajara, the capital of Jalisco and epicentre of the unrest, is due to host four World Cup matches and a FIFA Fan Fest expected to attract 200,000 fans. Several top-flight football matches in Mexico have been postponed, though other events such as the Mexico Open have continued.
In a statement provided to The Athletic, a FIFA spokesperson said: 'At FIFA Mexico, we are closely monitoring the situation in Jalisco and remain in constant communication with the authorities.' The organisation stressed its 'confidence in the intelligence and operational capabilities of its Mexican partners', adding that Mexico is treating World Cup planning as a matter of national security. FIFA has not indicated any plans to move upcoming playoff matches scheduled for Guadalajara and Monterrey in March.
Mexico's president, Claudia Sheinbaum, insisted on Tuesday that 'all the guarantees' would be in place and visitors would face 'no risk' during the tournament. England and Scotland are playing their group-stage fixtures in the United States, but both could travel to Mexico for knockout rounds. The Republic of Ireland, if they qualify, could play two of their three group matches in Mexico, with their playoff path going through the Czech Republic in March.
