Gang violence erupts in Mexico as cartel chief’s loss of life sparks 2026 World Cup fears
Mexico is facing major security concerns just months before co-hosting the 2026 World Cup, with violent cartel unrest and stadium renovation delays
The violent scenes in Mexico have sparked fears around the 2026 World Cup(Image: AP)
Violent disorder in Mexico has raised fresh safety fears just months ahead of the 2026 World Cup. Mexico is set to co-host the prestigious competition this summer along with the United States and Canada.
Guadalajara, Mexico City and Monterrey are the three Mexican venues staging World Cup matches this summer, with England possibly facing a last-16 fixture in the nation depending on group stage outcomes. The tournament begins in the country on June 11 in Mexico City with a group stage encounter between the hosts and South Africa.
However, new worries have emerged regarding security and safety for the event. Sunday witnessed violent chaos erupt following the death of infamous drug kingpin Nemesio Oseguera Cervantes.
Known as ‘El Mencho’, Cervantes perished after sustaining severe injuries during clashes between his supporters and military forces. Cervantes led the Jalisco New Generation (CJNG) drug cartel, which was behind trafficking methamphetamine and fentanyl into the United States.
His death triggered major demonstrations from cartel members on Sunday, including torching vehicles, establishing roadblocks and engaging in violent clashes with local security forces.
The violent scenes witnessed in Mexico over the weekend compound existing anxieties ahead of the World Cup, which takes place this summer. The Estadio Azteca in Mexico City is scheduled to stage matches during this summer’s tournament, but the legendary ground is presently undergoing refurbishment, sparking worries over whether it will be prepared for the competition’s commencement.
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Now rebranded as the Estadio Banorte, the venue is anticipated to accommodate group stage and knockout phase encounters, including a possible last-16 clash for England.
“This first stage, which ends on March 28 with the reopening, is important,” said Emilio Azcarraga, president of the stadium’s owners, Grupo Ollamani, in an official report to the Mexico Stock Exchange earlier this month.
“Then we’ll continue with the remaining work needed for the World Cup, and after that, because there are many things that, due to the complexity of the project, can’t be done. For example, the large parking lot outside the stadium, where we had to get rid of a lot of trash, we will have to do that after the World Cup.
“There was an issue with the lighting of the columns that wasn’t quite right, so that will be addressed later. It’s also about maintaining a consistent maintenance system, which I think was lacking in the past.”
Andre Villarreal, a passionate Mexico fan who co-presents the Futbol Asada YouTube channel with Christian Galvan, recently offered an insight into the nation’s tournament preparations. “I’ll be honest, no, I don’t think the country is ready,” Andre admitted.
“It’s not like they’re completely unprepared and should cancel it, but here in Guadalajara, roadworks are still ongoing.
“They’re still improving the transport links from the airport to facilitate easier access to the stadium. In Mexico City, the Estadio Azteca has been undergoing renovations for the past two to three years. They should be wrapping up soon, but there have been constant delays. It’s not all doom and gloom, but they’re not fully prepared.”
