Mexico City. – Mexico’s president, Claudia Sheinbaum, stated that there is “no risk” for visitors attending the host cities of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, following the recent episodes of violence recorded in the state of Jalisco.
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During her daily conference, the president assured that all security conditions are guaranteed, particularly in Guadalajara, one of the tournament venues, where blockades and armed clashes occurred after the death of Nemesio Oseguera Cervantes, alias “El Mencho”, leader of the Jalisco New Generation Cartel.
Sheinbaum maintained that the incidents decreased considerably after the initial events and expressed her confidence that activity in the region will be completely normalized. She also indicated that the presence of federal forces has been reinforced and that permanent work is maintained to guarantee security and peace.
Mexico will host the opening match of the World Cup on June 11, 2026 in the country’s capital, and will also host matches in Guadalajara and Monterrey.
The president emphasized that the operation that resulted in the death of the criminal leader does not imply a change in the government’s security strategy, which —she affirmed— is based on addressing the causes of violence and on the strict application of the law.
For its part, the Attorney General’s Office confirmed the identity of Oseguera Cervantes after the corresponding forensic analyses. The criminal leader, 59 years old, was one of the most wanted by Mexican and US authorities, who offered a millionaire reward for information leading to his capture.
The authorities reiterated that preparations for the World Cup are progressing as planned and that the necessary measures will be maintained to guarantee the safety of players, delegations, and fans during the international event.
