Mexico City – Despite a recent surge in violence following the death of a notorious cartel leader, Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum has affirmed that there is “no risk” to visitors attending the 2026 FIFA World Cup matches scheduled to be held in the country. The assurance comes after a weekend of unrest triggered by the military’s operation that resulted in the death of Nemesio Rubén Oseguera Cervantes, known as “El Mencho,” leader of the Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG). The upcoming World Cup, co-hosted by Mexico, the United States, and Canada, is a major event for the region, and maintaining security for both players and fans is paramount.
The Mexican military attempted to detain El Mencho in a dawn raid on Sunday, February 23, 2026, leading to a firefight in which he was fatally wounded while being transported to a hospital. In response, followers of the cartel blocked nearly 100 major roads and attacked national guard bases, particularly in the states of Jalisco and Michoacán. The violence resulted in a tragic loss of life, with at least 25 soldiers and 34 cartel gunmen killed in the fighting, according to official reports.
While the immediate fallout from El Mencho’s death saw widespread disruption, authorities say the situation is stabilizing. By Monday, February 24, 2026, the violence had largely subsided, though local media reported continued isolated incidents in rural municipalities of Jalisco state. Guadalajara, the capital of Jalisco and a host city for four World Cup games, along with the resort city of Puerto Vallarta, were initially heavily impacted but are gradually reopening, according to President Sheinbaum.
President Sheinbaum Reassures Public, Addresses Elon Musk’s Claims
Addressing concerns during her daily press conference on Tuesday, February 25, 2026, President Sheinbaum stated that “all guarantees are given” for the 13 World Cup matches scheduled to take place in Mexico City, Guadalajara, and Monterrey. She emphasized that federal and state forces are working in coordination to ensure safety and swiftly respond to any potential incidents. “Little by little the situation [in Jalisco] is returning to normal,” she said.
The president also addressed recent allegations made by tech billionaire Elon Musk, who claimed on X (formerly Twitter) that she was taking orders from drug traffickers. Sheinbaum indicated she is considering legal action against Musk, echoing similar criticisms leveled by former U.S. President Donald Trump that Mexico is “run by cartels.” Musk’s post referenced a 2025 video of Sheinbaum discussing cartel violence, claiming she was “saying what her cartel bosses tell her to say.”
In the referenced video, Sheinbaum articulated her administration’s stance against a renewed “war on drugs,” arguing that such an approach “is outside of the law” and “is permission to kill without any trial.”
The Complex Legacy of Targeting Cartel Leaders
The recent operation against El Mencho raises familiar questions about the effectiveness of targeting cartel leaders. Historically, such actions have often led to fragmentation within criminal organizations, as rival factions compete for control, potentially exacerbating violence. This pattern has been observed in Mexico since 2006, when then-President Felipe Calderón launched a military offensive against the country’s cartels. The Guardian reported in 2015 on how targeting kingpins often leads to increased violence and corruption.
However, Sheinbaum distinguished the recent operation from previous security policies, stating, “A situation arose in which, during the arrest of a member of an organised crime group who had an arrest warrant out against him, members of the army were attacked and responded, and he died during transport.” She reiterated her administration’s focus on pursuing “peace, not war,” framing the operation as a response to direct aggression rather than a proactive escalation.
FIFA Expresses Confidence in Mexico’s Hosting Capabilities
FIFA President Gianni Infantino expressed confidence in Mexico’s ability to host the World Cup matches, stating he was “highly reassured” about the country’s role. “Everything’s good. It’s going to be spectacular,” Infantino said while in Barranquilla, Colombia, on Tuesday, February 25, 2026, according to reports.
The recent violence resulted in approximately 70 people killed and 20 injured across multiple Mexican states, according to figures presented by Security Secretary Omar García Harfuch and Defense Secretary Gen. Ricardo Trevilla Trejo. Troops involved in the operation suffered three fatalities in direct clashes and three more died from injuries sustained during airlift transport. Eight suspected gunmen were killed, and two were detained, with authorities seizing weapons including seven long guns and two Russian-made rocket launchers.
Authorities detailed how they located El Mencho by tracking down one of his associates. Once the associate left the premises, officers confirmed El Mencho’s presence and moved to detain him, initiating a shootout with cartel operatives.
Looking ahead, Mexican authorities will continue to monitor the situation in Jalisco and Michoacán, focusing on maintaining security and preventing further escalation. The next official update on security measures for the World Cup is expected from the Ministry of Security and Citizen Protection on March 15, 2026. The successful execution of the World Cup in Mexico remains a priority for the government, and ongoing efforts are focused on ensuring a safe and welcoming environment for all attendees.
If you are traveling to Mexico, please check travel advisories from your government for the latest safety information.
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