Mexico City – A highly anticipated free concert by global superstar Shakira at the Zócalo, Mexico City’s central square, is still slated to take place on Sunday, March 1, despite heightened security concerns following the recent death of Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG) leader, Nemesio “El Mencho” Oseguera Cervantes. The performance, announced last week, is intended as a gift to residents and visitors and coincides with Grupo Modelo’s 100th anniversary.
Shakira plans to perform at 8 p.m. In the Zócalo, officially known as Plaza de la Constitución, one of the largest public squares in Latin America, spanning nearly 47,000 square meters (11.6 acres). In a video shared on her social media platforms, the Colombian singer expressed her desire to reciprocate the love she’s received from Mexico, stating, “Mexico of my life, it’s time to give back some of the love you’ve given me.” The event is expected to draw “hundreds of thousands of people,” according to organizers.
The concert is financed by Grupo Modelo and Corona and produced by OCESA, Mexico’s largest event promoter, serving as the closing event of the Mexican leg of Shakira’s “Las Mujeres Ya No Lloran” (Women Don’t Cry Anymore) world tour. To accommodate the expected crowds, live transmission will be available on Shakira’s social media channels, and viewing screens will be set up in Alameda Central park and at the Monument to the Revolution.
Security Concerns Following ‘El Mencho’s’ Demise
The planned concert comes at a sensitive time, following a nationwide security operation that resulted in the death of Nemesio Oseguera Cervantes, known as “El Mencho,” leader of the CJNG. Federal authorities reported that the operation in Tapalpa, Jalisco, triggered attacks in at least 20 states, with criminal groups responding with “narco-blockades” and coordinated assaults, Heraldo USA reporting on the details of the operation.
Entertainment journalist Gustavo Adolfo Infante publicly warned that the Shakira concert “could be canceled to safeguard the safety of thousands of residents of Mexico City and tourists,” prompting widespread media coverage and speculation. This concern followed the cancellation of other events in western Mexico, including a concert by Kali Uchis in Zapopan, after the outbreak of violence, as reported by USA Today.
Shakira’s History at the Zócalo and Recent Success in Mexico
This isn’t Shakira’s first performance at the Zócalo. She previously drew a crowd of 210,000 in 2007, a record that stood for 15 years until Tijuana-based band Grupo Firme attracted 280,000 attendees three years ago. Her 2007 indicate was noted for the massive crowds, with reports of fans fainting due to the heat and congestion, with Shakira telling the crowd, “We have a love story; I’m here to tell you: I love you, Mexico.”
The potential Zócalo concert would cap a remarkably successful run for Shakira in Mexico. She recently completed 12 sold-out nights at Mexico City’s Estadio GNP Seguros as part of her “Las Mujeres Ya No Lloran” tour, selling over 1 million tickets across the country, according to OCESA.
Current Status and Lack of Official Confirmation
As of Monday, February 23, Shakira’s concert scheduled for Wednesday at the Palacio de los Deportes in Mexico City remains confirmed, as does the Zócalo performance. However, Mexico News Daily reports that neither the Mexico City Mayor Clara Brugada nor the Ministry of Culture have responded to requests for confirmation or denial regarding a potential cancellation, and no official statement has been issued by Shakira’s team.
The situation remains fluid, and further updates will depend on the evolving security landscape in Mexico. Fans and attendees are advised to monitor official channels for any announcements regarding the status of the concert.
Please check back for updates as this story develops.
