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• Mexico’s World Cup preparations encounter new challenges following a surprising security action in Jalisco, leading to widespread consequences across the country.
• Growing unrest and an increasing number of fatalities have brought one host city under intense scrutiny before important match events.
• FIFA has finally spoken out as worries increase regarding the safety measures for the upcoming playoffs and summer events.

Mexico’s involvement as a co-host for next summer’s World Cup is facing increased attention following a rise in violence after the assassination of infamous drug lord Nemesio Rubén Oseguera Cervantes, commonly referred to as ‘El Mencho’.

A 59-year-old gang boss was killed in a military action in Jalisco, a western state, on Sunday, February 22.

Violent incidents in Mexico before the World Cup

As reported by Reuters, Oseguera Cervantes led the Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG), one of Mexico’s most powerful and quickly growing criminal groups.

Under his direction, the group established a reputation for its combat strength, geographic expansion, and impact in various areas.

His passing has caused extensive turmoil, starting in Jalisco and soon spreading to over a dozen additional states.

Reportedly, armed groups have set up roadblocks to hinder military operations, while cars and government structures have been set on fire as part of organized acts of revenge.

According to AS, over 70 individuals have died during the operation that toppled El Mencho and in the subsequent violence.

The dead and injured consist of individuals believed to be affiliated with drug cartels, members of Mexico’s National Guard, and ordinary people who were harmed during the conflict.

Guadalajara, the capital of Jalisco and the center of the turmoil, is set to host fourWorld Cupmatches this summer. The downtown area will also feature FIFA’s Fan Fest, anticipating the presence of up to 200,000 fans.

In reaction to the instability, several matches in Mexico’s leading men’s and women’s domestic leagueshave been postponed, as .gh earlier reported.

Nevertheless, several significant sporting events, such as the Mexico Open, have continued without any issues.

While officials anticipate a reduction in immediate violence over the next few weeks, worries about the long-term effects still persist.

What has FIFA said?

In a statement released toThe Athletic, a FIFA representative stated that the governing organization is closely observing the situation.

“At FIFA Mexico, we are closely observing the developments in Jalisco and continue to maintain regular contact with the officials,” the representative stated.

They mentioned that FIFA would keep adhering to advice from federal, state, and local agencies to maintain public safety and bring back normal conditions, highlighting continuous cooperation with Mexican officials.

Five World Cup games are set to take place in Mexico City, while four will be held in Monterrey, outside of Guadalajara. FIFA has shown confidence in the host country’s readiness, highlighting the event’s organization as a matter of national security and national pride.

The decision-making authority expressed confidence in the expertise and operational skills of its Mexican counterparts.

Although the finals are still months off, focus is already shifting towards the play-off games in March held in Guadalajara and Monterrey. Bolivia, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Iraq, Jamaica, New Caledonia, and Suriname are vying for the last two spots in the competition.

African teams qualified for the 2026 World Cup

Earlier, .ghstated that nine African nations havesecured their placefor the 2026 FIFA World Cup following the initial stage of CAF qualifiers in October 2025.

Among the nations that secured their spots wereGhana’s Black Stars, Egypt, Senegal, Morocco, and Tunisia, all of whom made a strong impression with impressive performances throughout the campaign.