Mexico's President Claudia Sheinbaum: "No Risk to Fan or Team Safety at 2026 World Cup"

Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum affirmed on Tuesday, February 24, in Mexico City, that her country possesses "all guarantees" to host the FIFA World Cup finals safely. Mexico will co-host the tournament next summer with the United States and Canada, despite recent security developments following the killing of a prominent organized crime leader in a military operation.

During her daily press conference at the National Palace, Sheinbaum emphasized the authorities' readiness to secure the global sporting event and ensure the safety of fans and teams. This assurance comes amidst security challenges that have emerged in recent days following the killing of Nemesio Oseguera, leader of the "Jalisco New Generation Cartel" and known as "El Mencho," and the subsequent scattered incidents of violence.

She clarified that these developments would not impact Mexico's preparations for hosting the World Cup finals as planned. She confirmed that the federal government's security strategy is active and that all necessary measures are in place to ensure the global sporting event is organized under safe conditions.

She stated that "there is no danger" to the safety of fans or teams, delivering a message of reassurance to the international community and FIFA as the tournament's start date approaches.

Mexico City, Guadalajara, and Monterrey are set to host 13 matches during the World Cup. Jalisco state, with its capital Guadalajara, experienced scattered acts of violence following "El Mencho's" killing in a military operation last Sunday. Meanwhile, the historic Azteca Stadium in Mexico City will host the opening match of the football spectacle.