Mexico Fears Colombian Drug Traffickers Exploiting 2026 World Cup on its Soil

Mexican authorities in Jalisco, one of the host states for the 2026 World Cup, are implementing strict measures to prevent Colombians linked to drug cartels from exploiting the football event to enter the country, a security official told Agence France-Presse.

Roberto Alarcon, Jalisco's General Coordinator of Strategic Security, explained: "Some individuals come to be recruited by drug cartels," noting an increase in former Colombian soldiers and fighters joining organized crime groups.

Alarcon added that security agencies have already repatriated a number of Colombians who could not justify their stay in Mexico, warning that foreign recruits might attempt to enter Jalisco using tourist programs as the World Cup approaches.

Last June, the Mexican army detained 10 former Colombian soldiers in the neighboring state of Michoacán following a landmine explosion that killed six Mexican soldiers. Officials indicate that this incident underscores the widespread nature of this phenomenon.

Guadalajara, one of the host cities for the 2026 World Cup, is fortified with over 2,000 surveillance cameras, drones, anti-drone teams, and air and ground units to secure the competition. The city will host four matches, including Mexico's second group stage match against South Korea on June 18.