Mexican officials and FIFA representatives held high-level talks Wednesday to evaluate security preparations ahead of the upcoming FIFA World Cup matches scheduled to take place in Mexico.
The discussions focused on ensuring fan safety and strengthening protection measures following a wave of violent incidents linked to cartel activity in several regions of the country.
Mexico is preparing to host 13 matches as part of the tournament it is co-hosting alongside the United States and Canada. Games will be staged in three major host cities — Mexico City, Guadalajara, and Monterrey — drawing thousands of international visitors and global attention to the country’s security environment.
The meeting brought together federal officials, regional authorities, and FIFA representatives to examine operational strategies designed to protect players, fans, and infrastructure during the tournament.
Federal Security Secretary Omar García Harfuch confirmed the purpose of the meeting in a message posted on social media, writing: “We reviewed the intelligence, prevention, and operational deployment protocols that will be implemented during this international event.”
Security concerns intensified in recent days after widespread unrest erupted in multiple Mexican states. The violence followed a military operation that resulted in the capture and death of Nemesio Oseguera Cervantes, known as “El Mencho,” the alleged leader of the Cartel Jalisco Nueva Generación.
The crackdown sparked retaliatory attacks in several regions. Authorities reported that criminal groups burned vehicles, looted stores, and blocked roads across Guadalajara, the state of Jalisco, and nearly 20 other areas. The state of Jalisco, considered the cartel’s primary stronghold, experienced some of the most severe disruptions.
Despite the incidents, Mexico’s government says security forces are fully prepared to guarantee safety during the global sporting event.
President Claudia Sheinbaum reassured the public during her daily press briefing that authorities are implementing extensive security measures for visitors and participants.
“Security is guaranteed, and there is sufficient surveillance and inspection to ensure that absolutely no problems occur, (so that) it will be a great, peaceful World Cup where visitors come to have fun,” Sheinbaum said.
According to government officials, the coordinated plan involves federal security agencies, state governments, and local authorities from the host regions. Representatives from Mexico City, Jalisco, and Nuevo León — the states where the matches will take place — participated in Wednesday’s discussions.
Mexico City’s iconic Azteca Stadium is set to host the tournament’s opening match on June 11, where Mexico will face South Africa in the first game of the competition.
The Mexican president also confirmed she recently spoke with FIFA President Gianni Infantino about the preparations. During their conversation last week, Infantino expressed confidence that the country can successfully deliver a safe tournament.
He conveyed his “full confidence” that Mexico will be able to co-host the World Cup despite the recent violence reported in parts of the country.
Authorities say they will continue coordinating with international partners and FIFA officials to monitor security developments and implement protective measures as the tournament approaches.
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