Infantino Trusts Mexico as the 2026 World Cup Venue Despite Violence
Barranquilla, Colombia – FIFA President Gianni Infantino expressed his “total confidence” in Mexico as the host of the 2026 World Cup, despite the recent episodes of violence that have affected the country. During a press conference, the leader of the highest body of world football assured that FIFA is closely monitoring the situation, but reiterated its support for the Mexican authorities.These statements come after the increase in violence following the death in Jalisco of Nemesio Oseguera Cervantes, alias “El Mencho”, leader of the Jalisco New Generation Cartel, which has generated international concern a few months before the start of the tournament. Infantino emphasized that FIFA maintains constant communication with the Mexican government and that there are no plans to modify the assigned venues. Mexico will host 13 matches of the 2026 World Cup, distributed in three cities: Mexico City, Guadalajara and Monterrey. The capital will host the opening match on June 11 at the Azteca Stadium, recently renovated. Guadalajara and Monterrey will also be venues for group stage matches and knockout rounds. The president of the organization recalled that in March, the repechage matches that will award the last tickets to the World Cup will be held in Mexico, in addition to the official inauguration of the remodeled Azteca Stadium. Infantino concluded by assuring that the 2026 World Cup will be “an incredible party”, reaffirming FIFA’s institutional support for Mexico as one of the main venues of the tournament.We are analyzing and closely following what is happening in Mexico, but I want to say from the beginning that we have complete confidence in Mexico, in its president Claudia Sheinbaum, and in its authorities. We are convinced that everything will develop in the best possible way.
Gianni Infantino, FIFA President
