FIFA to Assess Security in Mexico Ahead of 2026 World Cup

Alanbatnews -

FIFA plans to dispatch a delegation to Mexico to evaluate security measures in preparation for the 2026 World Cup, according to Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum.

Sheinbaum stated that she held discussions with FIFA President Gianni Infantino on Thursday. Following their conversation, Infantino reaffirmed his “full confidence in the host country” via Instagram, amidst rising concerns about security in Mexico following a recent surge of violence linked to the death of a prominent drug cartel leader.

During a press conference, Sheinbaum conveyed that Infantino “assured me that the World Cup will take place in our country, and we agreed that a FIFA delegation would come anyway to review several files.”

She added that the FIFA president inquired if there was anything of particular concern to her. She responded, “No… Sunday was an exceptional case, and we have since returned to normal.”

The FIFA mission will focus particularly on traffic and transportation issues for football fans, Sheinbaum noted.

Sheinbaum had previously asserted on Tuesday that there was “no risk” to football fans and that “all safety and security guarantees” would be in place for Guadalajara to host World Cup 2026 matches as scheduled.

Guadalajara is slated to host four matches in June as part of the tournament, which Mexico is co-hosting with the United States and Canada.

The city, along with Monterrey in northeastern Mexico, will also host matches for the global playoffs next month, determining the final two teams from among the 48 participating in the finals.

Mexico experienced a significant wave of violence following the death of drug cartel leader Nemesio Oseguera, known as “El Mencho,” during a military operation on Sunday.