
Mexico Prepares for 2026 World Cup with Deployment of 100,000 Security Personnel
Mexican authorities announced on Friday their plan to deploy approximately 100,000 security personnel, including military, police, and private security forces, to ensure the safety of matches the country will host during the 2026 World Cup finals.
This stringent security measure follows a recent wave of widespread violence that swept the country after the killing of a prominent drug cartel leader.
Last February saw dozens of casualties, in addition to car burnings, business closures, and blockades of major roads, leading to widespread disruption. This occurred after the killing of Nemesio Oseguera, known as "El Mencho," who led the Jalisco New Generation Cartel.
Mexico is set to host 13 matches during the World Cup finals, a tournament it is co-organizing with the United States and Canada. Among these matches, four will take place in Guadalajara, a major stronghold for the Jalisco New Generation Cartel.