World Cup 2026: Will violence and protests test Mexico’s cohost status?
Summary
The 2026 World Cup will start in Mexico City amid growing concerns about violence and protests in Mexico. Security incidents, including recent shootings linked to drug cartels, have raised fears about the safety of fans, players, and journalists during the tournament.Key Facts
- The World Cup 2026 opener is scheduled for June 11 in Mexico City, with Mexico playing South Africa at Estadio Azteca.
- A recent mass shooting in Puebla killed 10 people, increasing fears about security in Mexico.
- Mexico plans to deploy 100,000 security personnel, including National Guard troops and police, to protect the event.
- In April, a gunman killed a Canadian tourist and injured 13 at Teotihuacan, a popular site near Mexico City.
- Human Rights Watch and Amnesty International have warned about risks to journalists and fans due to ongoing violence and human rights issues.
- Violence increased after the killing of cartel leader Nemesio “El Mencho” Oseguera from the Jalisco New Generation Cartel.
- FIFA President Gianni Infantino said he feels reassured about Mexico’s hosting despite the violence.
- Relatives of missing people in Mexico protested during the World Cup buildup, highlighting the country’s issue with enforced disappearances, with over 133,000 people officially reported missing.
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