World Cup 2026: cartel violence, Mexico responds | OneFootball

The president of Mexico has just addressed cartel violence ahead of the 2026 World Cup

World Cup 2026: cartel violence, Mexico responds

Claudia Sheinbaum, president of Mexico, sought to reassure the public following the recent surge of severe violence in Mexico, just months before the 2026 World Cup kicks off.

In the past few hours, drug trafficking and paramilitary organizations have responded in their own way to the death of Nemesio "El Mencho" Oseguera, the leader of the Jalisco Nueva Generación Cartel (CJNG), the last major Mexican cartel boss after the arrests of "El Chapo" and "El Mayo". He was killed during a military operation supported by American intelligence services. Images of urban arson and roadblocks have spread across the globe, raising concerns just four months before the 2026 World Cup is set to begin.

During a press conference, the president of Mexico guaranteed that "every assurance" would be provided. The capital of Jalisco state is set to host several World Cup matches, alongside Monterrey and Mexico City.