Mexico president Claudia Sheinbaum said on Tuesday there are "all the guarantees" for the 2026 FIFA World Cup to be held in the country, after the capture and death of Mexico's most-wanted cartel leader triggered roadblocks, arson and security clashes, notably in Jalisco state. A spokesperson for FIFA said that the organization was closely monitoring the situation and was in close contact with the authorities. The arrests of other top cartel figures in Sinaloa state have in recent years also triggered cartel retaliation, including shootouts and vehicles set on fire. Mexico is set to host 13 of 104 World Cup matches. It will also host some preliminary warm-up matches before the tournament opens on June 11.

Source: Irish Examiner February 24, 2026 19:25 UTC