Mexico President Sheinbaum says FIFA will visit to assess World Cup security and mobility

FIFA will assess security and mobility in Mexico ahead of the World Cup amid recent violence concerns, says President Sheinbaum.

FIFA representatives will visit Mexico soon to assess security and mobility issues for the World Cup, Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum said.

The country's ability to co-host the World Cup has been under scrutiny this week following the violence that erupted after the army killed powerful drug lord Nemesio Oseguera Cervantes last Sunday (February 22, 2026).

The operation and its violent repercussions claimed the lives of 70 people. Cartel members set cars on fire to block streets in States across the country, particularly in cities in Jalisco state, among them Guadalajara, which is scheduled to host four World Cup matches.

FIFA President Gianni Infantino told Sheinbaum in a phone call on Thursday that he has “full confidence” in Mexico as a World Cup host.

Former Argentina player Roberto Ayala, former Mexico player Hugo Sanchez, president of Coca Cola Mexico Louis Balat and Mexico's Foreign Minister Juan Ramon de la Fuente next to the FIFA World Cup trophy at the unveiling in Mexico, on February 27, 2026 | Photo Credit: Reuters

Ms. Sheinbaum backed that up on Friday in her daily briefing.