Mexican authorities and FIFA officials held a high-level meeting in Mexico City to review security measures for the World Cup matches scheduled in the country.
The talks came after violent incidents erupted across multiple states following the death of Nemesio Oseguera Cervantes, alias El Mencho, leader of the Jalisco New Generation Cartel.
Federal Security Secretary Omar García Harfuch confirmed that intelligence, prevention, and operational deployment protocols were thoroughly assessed to ensure safety during the global tournament.
Mexico will co-host the World Cup alongside the United States and Canada, staging 13 matches in Mexico City, Guadalajara, and Monterrey.
The opening match, Mexico versus South Africa, is set for June 11 at the iconic Azteca Stadium, which has undergone a two-year renovation to expand capacity to 87,000.
Azteca will also host a friendly between Mexico and Portugal on March 28, marking its official reopening ahead of the tournament.
President Claudia Sheinbaum reassured fans that security is guaranteed, emphasizing that federal and state forces are fully prepared to protect visitors during the event.
Sheinbaum described the World Cup as a “great, peaceful celebration” and urged fans to enjoy the games without fear of disruption.
The meeting included members of Mexico’s Security Cabinet and officials from Jalisco and Nuevo León, regions directly impacted by cartel violence.
Guadalajara and Monterrey will also host the six-team inter-confederation playoff in March, featuring Jamaica, Iraq, DR Congo, Suriname, New Caledonia, and Bolivia.
FIFA President Gianni Infantino expressed full confidence in Mexico’s ability to co-host, despite recent unrest that saw vehicles burned, businesses looted, and roads blocked in Jalisco.
Authorities stressed that enhanced surveillance and inspection measures will be in place, ensuring the safety of fans, players, and officials throughout the tournament.
The World Cup will mark a historic moment for Mexico, reaffirming its role as a global football hub while demonstrating resilience in the face of security challenges.
