How Mexico plans to secure the World Cup 2026? The high-stakes security strategy revealed by Mexican authorities | OneFootball

Massive operation planned to protect matches across host cities

How Mexico plans to secure the World Cup 2026? The high-stakes security strategy revealed by Mexican authorities

Mexico will deploy nearly 100,000 security personnel to protect matches it will host during FIFA World Cup 2026.

Huge security plan ahead of the tournament

Mexican authorities announced on Friday that around 100,000 security personnel including soldiers, police officers and private security staff, will be deployed to ensure safety during the FIFA World Cup 2026.

Mexico will host 13 match in the tournament which will run from 11 June to 19 July 2026 and will be organized jointly with the United States & Canada.

Officials say the security operation is designed to protect fans, players and officials during what is expected to be the largest World Cup in history.

One of the host cities is Guadalajara where four matches are scheduled. The city is also known as a stronghold of the Jalisco New Generation Cartel making security preparations a major priority for the authorities.

Violence triggered stronger measures

The announcement comes after a recent wave of violence following the killing of Nemesio “El Mencho” Oseguera leader of the Jalisco New Generation Cartel.

After his death, cartel members launched coordinated attacks in several parts of the country. Roads were blocked in 20 of Mexico’s 32 states and cars and businesses were set on fire including in the tourist city of Puerto Vallarta.

Authorities reported that at least 74 people died during the military operation and the clashes that followed between security forces and cartel members.

Government & FIFA feview security strategy

Mexican officials recently met with representatives from FIFA to review security plans for the tournament. The meeting included members of the national security cabinet as well as officials from Mexico City, Jalisco and Nuevo Leon.

Federal Security Secretary Omar Garcia Harfuch said the discussions focused on operational plans to ensure that all matches are safe and well protected.

President promises a safe World Cup

Mexico’s President Claudia Sheinbaum also tried to reassure international visitors. During a press briefing, she said authorities are confident that the tournament will be safe and well organized.

She explained that strong surveillance and inspection systems will be in place so that fans from around the world can enjoy peaceful and successful World Cup.

FIFA President Gianni Infantino also expressed confidence that Mexico will successfully host its part of the tournament despite the recent security challenges.