2026 World Cup: Mexico ramps up security amid threat from cartels

With just months to go before the World Cup, Mexico is making headlines for the grip that criminal organisations still hold over parts of the country. The killing of drug lord El Mencho, during a special forces operation in late February, has sparked a surge of violence nationwide.

Key takeaways

Quick scan — what you need to know:

• With just months to go before the World Cup, Mexico is making headlines for the grip that criminal organisations still hold over parts of the country.
• The killing of drug lord El Mencho, during a special forces operation in late February, has sparked a surge of violence nationwide.
• But President Claudia Sheinbaum insists the necessary security measures will be in place to protect football fans and players.

Background

What led here, in plain terms:

• The killing of drug lord El Mencho, during a special forces operation in late February, has sparked a surge of violence nationwide.
• But President Claudia Sheinbaum insists the necessary security measures will be in place to protect football fans and players.

Why it matters

Why readers and decision-makers should care:

• But President Claudia Sheinbaum insists the necessary security measures will be in place to protect football fans and players.
• With just months to go before the World Cup, Mexico is making headlines for the grip that criminal organisations still hold over parts of the country.
• The killing of drug lord El Mencho, during a special forces operation in late February, has sparked a surge of violence nationwide.