Mexican president visits Jalisco to ease concerns over violence
Mexico’s President Claudia Sheinbaum made a crucial visit to Jalisco, a state in western Mexico, to address the escalating security concerns ahead of the upcoming FIFA World Cup. The region has been plagued by violence following the recent killing of Mexico’s most powerful drug lord, Nemesio Oseguera Cervantes, also known as “El Mencho,” by the Mexican army. This event triggered clashes between cartel gunmen and resulted in the burning of cars across Mexico, with Jalisco and its capital, Guadalajara, bearing the brunt of the violence.
The surge of violence in Jalisco has claimed the lives of over 70 individuals, including 25 National Guard members, raising doubts about the city’s ability to host thousands of visitors during the World Cup. President Sheinbaum, accompanied by her Security Cabinet and top military officials, held a press briefing from a military base in the municipality where “El Mencho” was laid to rest earlier in the week. The stadium that will host World Cup matches is also located in this area.
“We are here to reassure the people of Jalisco that we are united in working towards peace, security, and the well-being of the residents of this beautiful state,” Sheinbaum stated during the briefing.
With less than 100 days until the World Cup kicks off, Sheinbaum and security officials unveiled a comprehensive security plan that will involve more than 20 federal government agencies, including the Army and Navy, as well as local authorities. Mexican Security Secretary Omar García Harfuch emphasized the collaboration with US, Canadian, and FIFA authorities to enhance planning and risk mitigation strategies.
The security plan includes specialized training for officials, operational exercises, early warning systems, security deployments around key locations such as stadiums, airports, and lodging centers, as well as protection measures for delegations and attendees. Despite the recent violence, Sheinbaum has remained optimistic about Mexico’s ability to host the World Cup, receiving reassurance from FIFA President Gianni Infantino.
Gen. Román Villalvazo, who oversees security coordination for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, announced the establishment of joint task forces in Mexico City, Guadalajara, and Monterrey. He emphasized the significance of presenting Mexico as a safe and secure country to the international community while effectively addressing any threats to national security.
The 2026 FIFA World Cup, co-hosted by Mexico, the United States, and Canada, poses unprecedented challenges for Mexico, requiring a reliable and secure environment for the global event. The government is committed to ensuring a successful and safe tournament for all participants and visitors.
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