FIFA President Dismisses Concerns Over Mexico's World Cup Hosting Status
FIFA President Gianni Infantino has firmly dismissed growing concerns that Mexico could be stripped of hosting matches at the 2026 World Cup following a recent surge of cartel-related violence in the country. Speaking to Spanish media outlet AS, Infantino stated he was "not worried" about the situation, emphasizing FIFA's ongoing communication with Mexican authorities.
Violence Erupts in Key World Cup Region
The violence erupted on Sunday after Mexican army forces killed the country's most wanted man, drug lord Nemesio Ruben Oseguera Cervantes, known as "El Mencho." As leader of the notorious Jalisco New Generation Cartel, his death triggered immediate retaliation from loyalists, resulting in vehicles being torched and roads blocked throughout Jalisco state.
This development has raised significant safety concerns for visitors to the region, with several airlines already cancelling flights to Jalisco. The timing is particularly critical as Guadalajara, the state capital, is scheduled to host intercontinental play-offs in March to fill remaining World Cup spots, followed by four tournament fixtures this summer.
Mexico's World Cup Role Remains Secure
Despite the security challenges, Infantino expressed unwavering confidence in Mexico's ability to host World Cup events successfully. "We are looking carefully at what is happening in Mexico," he told AS. "We are in contact with the presidency, with the authorities, and we have full confidence that everything will go very well: the playoff and then the World Cup. It will be a celebration."
Mexico is set to stage twelve matches during the 2026 tournament, which it is co-hosting with the United States and Canada. Guadalajara's confirmed participants so far include football powerhouses Spain, Colombia, Uruguay, and Mexico itself, with additional games scheduled for Mexico City and Monterrey.
Sport and Politics: A Delicate Balance
Infantino, who maintains relationships with global leaders including former US President Donald Trump, reiterated FIFA's position that political matters should not interfere with sporting events. "It is possible, it has to be possible," he emphasized. "We don't do politics, we do football and we support everything good that football can do – unite countries, unite the world, help children, help peace."
The FIFA president further explained that engagement with world leaders is necessary to promote football's positive impact on youth and global unity. His comments come at a crucial juncture as tournament organizers balance security preparations with maintaining the celebratory atmosphere expected of World Cup events.
With the intercontinental play-offs approaching rapidly and summer tournament preparations intensifying, all eyes remain on Mexican authorities' ability to ensure safety while preserving the country's vital role in football's premier global competition.
