FIFA Chief Expresses Full Confidence in Mexico's World Cup Hosting Amid Drug Cartel Violence

Kathmandu. As international concern grows over Mexico's security situation following the violence sparked by the death of a powerful drug gang leader, the head of world football's governing body has expressed full confidence in the country's ability to host the upcoming World Cup. Questions are being raised about whether the country can handle its responsibilities as a co-host with just over three months remaining, but FIFA President Gianni Infantino appears confident.

Speaking at a press conference in Colombia, he stated that FIFA is monitoring the situation in Mexico and expressed full faith in Mexico, its President Claudia Sheinbaum, and the relevant authorities. According to him, FIFA is optimistic that the World Cup matches will proceed as smoothly as possible. "Mexico is a great country; events happen here just like in other countries around the world; we don't live on the moon," he said. He expressed confidence that the government, police, and authorities will guarantee the organization and security.

Recently, violence erupted in various parts of the country after Mexican forces killed Nemesio Ruben Oseguera Cervantes, known as 'El Mencho,' during an operation. He was considered the leader of the Jalisco New Generation Drug Cartel. In the following days, drug cartel groups engaged in activities such as burning vehicles and blocking roads in about a dozen states. According to officials, at least 70 people have died.

The violence has also affected the sports sector. Four high-level local league matches were postponed last Sunday, including the match scheduled in the central city of Querétaro. Mexico defeated Iceland 4-0 in a friendly match in the same city. Before the match, a minute of silence was observed at the Corregidora Stadium to honor the soldiers who lost their lives during the operation to capture Oseguera.

According to the schedule, Mexico will host 13 World Cup matches, including the opening game in Mexico City on June 11. Guadalajara, considered the area of influence of the Jalisco drug cartel, is scheduled to host four matches.

Colombia is preparing to play one match in Mexico City and another in Guadalajara. Colombian Football Federation President Ramón Jesurún expressed confidence that the country will overcome the situation, even though their first two matches are in Mexico. He opined that this is only a temporary problem that will be resolved soon.

However, not all nations are equally reassured. The Portuguese Football Federation stated in March that it is closely watching the developments ahead of their friendly match against Mexico. Jamaica is scheduled to play New Caledonia in the Intercontinental Playoff semifinal in Guadalajara on March 26, with the winner competing against Congo for a World Cup spot.

Jamaica Football Federation President Michael Ricketts stated that since the matches are towards the end of the month, there is still some time left, but he admitted that the current situation worries him. He said he is awaiting necessary directives from Concacaf and FIFA.

Another playoff match is scheduled in Monterrey, where Bolivia will play Suriname, and the winner will compete against Iraq for a place in the tournament. On Monday, President Sheinbaum clarified that the World Cup matches in Guadalajara will proceed as planned and there is no risk.

Infantino stated that FIFA is in regular contact with the Mexican government and the situation is being continuously monitored. According to him, the upcoming World Cup will be an 'unbelievable celebration,' and FIFA is confident that Mexico will successfully fulfill its obligations despite the current challenges.