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Violence in Mexico Raises Questions About World Cup Readiness, FIFA Expresses Confidence
Recent violent outbreaks across Mexico following the death of a powerful drug lord have raised international concerns about the country’s ability to safely host World Cup matches in just over three months. Despite these worries, FIFA leadership remains steadfast in its support of the co-host nation.
“Of course, we are monitoring the situation in Mexico these days, but I want to say from the outset that we have complete confidence in Mexico, in its president, Claudia Sheinbaum, and in the authorities,” FIFA President Gianni Infantino stated during a press conference in Colombia on Tuesday. “We are convinced that everything will go as smoothly as possible.”
The unrest began after Mexican military forces killed Nemesio Rubén Oseguera Cervantes, known as “El Mencho,” the leader of the Jalisco New Generation Cartel, on Sunday. The operation triggered widespread retaliatory violence, with cartel members burning vehicles and blocking roads across nearly a dozen Mexican states. Authorities report at least 70 casualties in the aftermath.
The security situation has already impacted domestic soccer, with four high-level matches from local leagues postponed last Sunday. However, a friendly match between Mexico and Iceland proceeded as scheduled on Wednesday in Queretaro’s Corregidora stadium, where attendees observed a minute of silence honoring soldiers who died during the operation against Oseguera.
Mexico is set to host thirteen World Cup matches, including the tournament opener between Mexico and South Africa on June 11 in Mexico City. Particularly concerning to security experts is that Guadalajara, the central hub for the Jalisco cartel’s operations, is scheduled to host four matches.
President Sheinbaum has attempted to allay fears, stating on Monday that there is “every guarantee” the Guadalajara matches will proceed as planned and that there is “no risk.” Her administration faces significant pressure to restore order quickly as the global sporting event approaches.
The security situation has prompted varied responses from participating nations. Colombia, scheduled to play one game each in Mexico City and Guadalajara, has expressed confidence in Mexico’s ability to overcome the current crisis.
“Our first two matches are in Mexico, but we know they will overcome this and move forward,” said Ramón Jesurún, president of the Colombian Soccer Federation. “I have absolute and total confidence in my geopolitical thinking that this is an issue Mexico will overcome, and overcome very quickly.”
Other countries have shown more concern. Portugal’s soccer federation announced Tuesday that it is closely monitoring developments ahead of a planned friendly against Mexico in March. Jamaica, which is scheduled to play New Caledonia in Guadalajara on March 26 in an intercontinental playoff semifinal, has expressed particular anxiety.
“The games are at the end of March, so we still have another month to see what happens, but it is making me very nervous, to be honest,” said Michael Ricketts, president of the Jamaican Soccer Federation. “We will be listening out for CONCACAF and FIFA to give us instructions on whether they are playing the games or whether they are immediately looking for other options.”
Monterrey, another Mexican host city, is slated to host a playoff where Bolivia plays Suriname, with the winner facing Iraq for a tournament spot. These qualifying matches represent critical steps in the run-up to the main tournament.
The situation highlights the complex interplay between Mexico’s ongoing security challenges and its international commitments. For FIFA, maintaining the planned schedule in Mexico is crucial for the expanded 48-team World Cup format being co-hosted with the United States and Canada.
“We are in regular contact with the presidency and the authorities in Mexico and we are monitoring the situation,” Infantino reassured. “The World Cup is going to be an incredible celebration.”
Mexican authorities now face the dual challenge of addressing the immediate security crisis while demonstrating to the international community that the country can provide safe conditions for one of the world’s most-watched sporting events.
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11 Comments
The recent unrest triggered by the cartel leader’s death is definitely worrying. While FIFA expresses confidence, I hope they are not underestimating the scale of the challenge Mexico faces in ensuring the safety of players and fans.
You raise a good point. The level of cartel violence in parts of Mexico is quite severe, so FIFA will need to be vigilant and proactive in their security measures.
It’s good that FIFA is monitoring the situation, but I hope they’re not just taking the authorities’ word for it. The scale of the cartel violence is significant, and they’ll need to verify that robust security measures are in place to ensure a safe and successful World Cup.
While the FIFA president’s comments express optimism, the recent violence is a sobering reminder of the challenges Mexico faces in hosting a major international event like the World Cup. Careful planning and coordination will be crucial.
Absolutely. The safety and security of players, officials, and fans should be the top priority. FIFA will need to work closely with Mexican authorities to mitigate the risks.
It’s understandable that FIFA wants to project an image of confidence, but the reality on the ground in Mexico is quite concerning. I hope they are not turning a blind eye to the risks just to avoid disrupting the World Cup plans.
While the cartel violence is worrying, I appreciate FIFA’s stance of supporting Mexico’s hosting capabilities. They likely have a better understanding of the security situation and the measures being taken. Cautious optimism seems warranted at this stage.
The recent unrest is certainly concerning, but I’m glad to see FIFA expressing confidence in Mexico’s ability to host the World Cup games. Careful planning and coordination with local authorities will be key to ensuring a safe and successful event.
I agree. With the right security measures and close collaboration between FIFA and Mexican officials, I believe the World Cup can be held safely in Mexico.
Interesting that FIFA remains confident in Mexico’s ability to host World Cup games despite the recent cartel violence. Security will certainly be a major challenge, but I suppose they feel the authorities can manage it. Curious to see how it plays out.
I agree, the security situation is concerning. However, FIFA likely has contingency plans in place and is working closely with Mexican officials to address any issues.