February 25, 2026
Mexico’s president has thrown her weight behind the country’s safety blueprint for the tournament, insisting there are full guarantees for players and supporters.
Speaking after a wave of unrest in Jalisco state, President Claudia Sheinbaum said the situation is stabilising. Security forces remain on alert following clashes linked to an operation targeting cartel leader Nemesio Oseguera, known as El Mencho.
“There is no risk,” she told reporters during her morning briefing, addressing concerns over FIFA World Cup 2026 security.
Violence flared after Oseguera’s reported death, triggering roadblocks and arson attacks. Fresh barricades appeared overnight, but federal forces moved quickly to restore order.
Sheinbaum maintained that stability is returning. Patrols have been reinforced in key areas, particularly around Guadalajara, one of the host cities for the tournament.
Mexico will stage 13 games as part of the expanded 48-team competition. Four matches are scheduled in Guadalajara, with additional fixtures in Mexico City and Monterrey. Warm-up games are also lined up in the region.
The spotlight will fall on stadiums across three major cities when Mexico World Cup matches 2026 kick off in June. Officials expect thousands of international visitors to fill hotels, restaurants and public squares.
The 2026 edition runs from June 11 to July 19 across the United States, Canada and Mexico. A total of 104 matches will be played in 16 cities.
For Mexico, the message is clear. Preparations continue and security stands firm. The world will be welcomed without hesitation as Mexico World Cup matches 2026 take centre stage.