Gianni Infantino said Tuesday he is confident Mexico remains ready to host matches at the upcoming FIFA World Cup, despite recent violence triggered by the killing of a major cartel leader.
“Very reassured, everything’s good. It’s going to be spectacular,” Infantino told AFP in Barranquilla, Colombia, two days after armed groups launched coordinated attacks—including in Guadalajara—following the army’s operation against Nemesio “El Mencho” Oseguera.
Mexico will co-host the June 11–July 19 World Cup alongside the United States and Canada.
The unrest followed the reported killing of Oseguera, leader of the powerful Jalisco New Generation Cartel. Authorities said at least 74 people died during the security operation near Guadalajara and subsequent clashes with suspected cartel members.
While officials stated only one civilian was among the dead, widespread road blockades and arson across 20 of Mexico’s 32 states created scenes of chaos that unsettled residents and visitors.
‘No Risk’ To Football Fans
Despite the turmoil, Infantino’s comments projected confidence in Mexico’s preparations. However, the Portuguese Football Federation signaled caution, saying it was closely monitoring the situation ahead of a planned March 29 friendly in Mexico City. The federation emphasized that player and supporter safety would determine whether the match proceeds.
Mexico’s national team coach, Javier Aguirre, maintained that preparations remain on track. Meanwhile, President Claudia Sheinbaum assured there was “no risk” to World Cup fans and described the security situation as gradually stabilizing.
Guadalajara is set to stage four group matches, including a high-profile encounter between Uruguay and Spain, and will co-host a playoff tournament with Monterrey to determine the final two qualifiers. Mexico City and Monterrey were not directly affected by the violence.
Jalisco Governor Pablo Lemus dismissed speculation that Guadalajara could lose its hosting rights, insisting there was “absolutely no risk” of removal from the tournament lineup.
Attention now turns to Queretaro, where Mexico is scheduled to face Iceland in a friendly match. A domestic league fixture in the state was suspended earlier due to security concerns.
The slain cartel leader was among the most-wanted fugitives in both the United States and Mexico, with a $15 million bounty placed on him by US authorities. He co-founded the cartel in 2009, which later grew into one of the country’s most powerful criminal groups, rivaling the organization once led by Joaquin “El Chapo” Guzman.
As security assessments continue, economic ripple effects have begun to surface. Japanese automaker Honda temporarily halted operations at its Guadalajara assembly plant, citing precautionary measures while evaluating the evolving security landscape. Mexico remains a major manufacturing hub for global carmakers, including Ford, General Motors, BMW, and Audi.
What You Should Know
FIFA leadership has expressed confidence in Mexico’s readiness to co-host the World Cup despite recent cartel-related violence.
Mexican authorities insist tourist areas and host cities remain secure, while some international football bodies are reviewing travel plans as a precaution. Guadalajara is central to Mexico’s hosting duties, including key group matches and a playoff tournament.
The unrest followed a major anti-cartel operation and briefly disrupted daily life and some sporting events. With the tournament only months away, security assurances and stability will be critical to maintaining global confidence.
