FIFA has responded to questions over whether Mexico can safely stage matches at the 2026 World Cup amid a recent surge in cartel-linked violence.
The 2026 FIFA World Cup will be shared between three host nations. The majority of fixtures are set to take place in the United States, with additional games scheduled in Canada and Mexico.
In Mexico, tensions have risen in recent days following reports that cartel figure Nemesio Oseguera Cervantes, known as ‘El Mencho’, was killed by the Mexican army.
After his death, violence reportedly escalated in several areas, prompting fresh concern about public safety and event security.
The situation has already had an impact on domestic football, with the Mexican Football Federation cancelling some matches, and it has fuelled debate over what it could mean for the World Cup.
FIFA president Gianni Infantino has now insisted the organisation remains confident that Mexico will be able to host its portion of the tournament.
“Of course, we are monitoring the situation in Mexico these days,” said Infantino. “But I want to say from the outset that we have complete confidence in Mexico, in its president, Claudia Sheinbaum, and in the authorities, and we are convinced that everything will go as smoothly as possible.”
He also sought to reassure travelling supporters, pointing to upcoming fixtures and stadium developments in the country.
“We have some matches in Mexico in a month, the World Cup playoffs, and the new Azteca Stadium will also be inaugurated,” he said.
“Mexico is a great football country. Like in every country in the world, things happen; we don’t live on the moon or another planet. That’s why we have governments, police, and authorities who will ensure order and security.”
Elsewhere, Colombian Soccer Federation president Ramón Jesurún echoed the belief that Mexico will move past the unrest, particularly with his team due to play there early in the schedule.
President of the Colombian Soccer Federation Ramón Jesurún said: “Our first two matches are in Mexico, but we know they will overcome this and move forward.
“I have absolute and total confidence in my geopolitical thinking that this is an issue Mexico will overcome, and overcome very quickly.”
Infantino said FIFA is continuing to liaise with Mexican officials while keeping a close eye on developments.
Infantino added: “We are in regular contact with the presidency and the authorities in Mexico and we are monitoring the situation.
“The World Cup is going to be an incredible celebration.”
Mexico is not the only host nation facing questions about fan safety and travel concerns ahead of 2026.
In the United States, ongoing immigration enforcement actions under the Trump administration, including reports of people being detained despite holding valid visas, have raised worries that some supporters could reconsider travelling due to fears about ICE.