FIFA President Gianni Infantino has affirmed his confidence that Mexico will remain a host nation for the 2026 World Cup, despite recent violence linked to cartel activity in the city of Guadalajara.
The assurance came following a weekend of unrest in Jalisco state, sparked by the reported wounding of Nemesio Ruben Oseguera Cervantes, known as “El Mencho,” leader of the Jalisco New Generation Cartel. Gangs responded by torching vehicles and blocking roadways, raising concerns about security ahead of intercontinental play-off matches scheduled for March and the World Cup tournament itself. Guadalajara is slated to host four World Cup fixtures.
“We are looking carefully at what is happening in Mexico,” Infantino told Spanish media outlet AS. “We are in contact with the presidency, with the authorities and we have full confidence that everything will go very well: the playoff and then the World Cup. It will be a celebration.”
The violence prompted some airlines to cancel flights to Guadalajara, according to reports. The 2026 World Cup is a joint effort between Mexico, the United States, and Canada, with the US hosting the majority of the matches. Mexico’s other host cities are Mexico City and Monterrey.
Infantino also reiterated his stance on the separation of politics and sport, stating, “It is possible, it has to be possible. We don’t do politics, we do football and we support everything good that football can do – unite countries, unite the world, aid children, help peace.” He added that FIFA maintains contact with global leaders to promote these objectives.
The tournament is currently sold out, with all 104 matches having secured ticket sales, according to Infantino.