FIFA meets Mexico officials to review World Cup security after cartel violence

FIFA representatives met with Mexican government officials on Wednesday to assess security arrangements for the 13 World Cup matches scheduled to take place in Mexico this summer, following weeks of concern over cartel violence that erupted after the killing of drug lord Nemesio Oseguera Cervantes, known as "El Mencho."

The meeting, held in Mexico City, brought together FIFA delegates, Federal Security Secretary Omar García Harfuch, members of Mexico's Security Cabinet, and authorities from the three host states — Mexico City, Jalisco, and Nuevo León. "We reviewed the intelligence, prevention, and operational deployment protocols that will be implemented during this international event," García Harfuch said on social media, according to the Associated Press.apnews

Sheinbaum Pledges a "Peaceful World Cup"

President Claudia Sheinbaum used her daily briefing to reinforce the government's commitment to safety for the tournament, which Mexico is co-hosting with the United States and Canada from June 11 to July 19. "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.english.aawsat+1

The meeting followed a phone call last week between Sheinbaum and FIFA President Gianni Infantino, during which Infantino expressed "full confidence" in Mexico's ability to host, according to the AP. Sheinbaum had told Infantino that conditions had "returned to normal" after what she called a "special situation".AS USA+1

Shadow of the El Mencho Operation

That situation — the February 22 military operation in Tapalpa, Jalisco, that killed the leader of the Jalisco New Generation Cartel — triggered narco-blockades of burning vehicles across at least eight Mexican states. In Guadalajara, a World Cup host city scheduled for four matches, armed cartel members set fire to vehicles and a gas station, sending the city into lockdown. The operation and its violent aftermath claimed some 70 lives, according to the AP.The Guardian+1

World Aquatics canceled a Diving World Cup event near Guadalajara in the wake of the violence, but FIFA has not moved any scheduled events. Guadalajara and Monterrey are still set to host an inter-confederation playoff featuring six teams competing for the final two World Cup berths, alongside the tournament matches themselves.ESPN+1

Matches Remain on Track

Mexico's opening match against South Africa is scheduled for June 11 at Azteca Stadium in Mexico City. With three months until kickoff, the Wednesday meeting marked the first in-person security review between FIFA and Mexican authorities since the cartel violence, though both sides signaled that preparations remain on course.apnews