FIFA President Gianni Infantino has reiterated his full confidence in Mexico’s readiness to stage matches at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, even as security concerns briefly cast a shadow over preparations.
The 2026 edition of the tournament will be jointly hosted by three North American nations — Canada, Mexico, and the United States — marking the first time three countries will share hosting duties in World Cup history.
FIFA’s Assurance After High-Level Talks
Infantino confirmed on Thursday that he held an “excellent conversation” with Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum, reaffirming FIFA’s trust in the country’s organisational capabilities.
“I reiterated our full confidence in the host country and look forward to it staging all scheduled matches there at what will be the most inclusive and the greatest FIFA World Cup ever,” Infantino said.
Mexico is set to host 13 matches, including four in Guadalajara, one of the key venues for the expanded 48-team tournament.
Security Situation Under Watch
The reassurances follow unrest triggered by the killing of cartel leader Nemesio Oseguera Cervantes, head of the Jalisco New Generation Cartel.
The incident led to several days of violence in multiple states, including road blockades and vehicle burnings.
President Sheinbaum, however, stressed there was “no risk” to visitors and confirmed that World Cup preparations remain on schedule. “We continue working as usual to successfully host the 2026 FIFA World Cup,” she posted on X.
Despite the assurances, a World Cup diving event scheduled in a Guadalajara suburb next week was canceled over security concerns. The Portuguese Football Federation also said it is closely monitoring developments ahead of Portugal’s planned friendly against Mexico in Mexico City.
Infantino, speaking earlier during a visit to Colombia, maintained optimism that operations across the three host nations would proceed smoothly.
Playoff Fixtures Still Scheduled
Guadalajara is also due to stage an international playoff in late March, with the New Caledonia national football team set to face the Jamaica national football team, and the winner meeting the Congo national football team for a place in the World Cup.
Michael Ricketts, president of the Jamaica Football Federation, said his association is closely tracking the situation ahead of the Reggae Boyz’ upcoming fixtures.
As the countdown to 2026 continues, FIFA’s message remains firm: with Canada, Mexico and the United States combining forces, the World Cup is set to break new ground — both in scale and in global reach.
Source: The Hindu
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