Will Mexico still host FIFA 2026 World Cup? President Gianni Infantino remain confident despite rising cartel violence

FIFA 2026 World Cup is not going anywhere from Mexico as the governing body remains calm even as images of burning vehicles and blocked highways in Mexico stirred global concern just months before the World Cup.

The unrest followed a major military operation that killed cartel leader Nemesio Rubén Oseguera Cervantes, widely known as El Mencho. The violence spread across multiple states and briefly disrupted domestic football. Yet inside FIFA’s leadership, the tone has stayed measured, almost steady, as preparations continue for football’s biggest event.Speaking from Colombia, FIFA President Gianni Infantino made it clear that the governing body is not backing away from Mexico.

With the tournament drawing closer, his words were not just reassurance but a signal. FIFA believes Mexico will deliver. “Of course, we are monitoring the situation in Mexico these days, but I want to say from the outset that we have complete confidence in Mexico, in its president, Claudia Sheinbaum, and in the authorities, and we are convinced that everything will go as smoothly as possible,” Infantino said.

Why FIFA insists Mexico remains fully ready to host 2026 FIFA World Cup matches

The concern is rooted in timing and scale. The Mexican army’s operation against the Jalisco New Generation Cartel triggered retaliation that left at least 70 people dead, according to authorities.

Matches were postponed. Roads were shut. Cities that will soon welcome the world found themselves managing a different kind of spotlight.

Still, Infantino framed it in broader terms. “Mexico is a great country, like in every country in the world, things happen; we don’t live on the moon or another planet,” he said. “That’s why we have governments, police, and authorities who will ensure order and security.”Mexico’s role is significant. Thirteen World Cup matches are scheduled across Mexico City, Guadalajara, and Monterrey, including the opening game at the iconic Estadio Azteca.

The stadium already carries history. Soon, it will add another chapter.Others within football are watching closely, though not all share the same ease. Ramón Jesurún of the Colombian Football Federation backed Mexico’s ability to stabilize. “Our first two matches are in Mexico, but we know they will overcome this and move forward,” he said. “I have absolute and total confidence in my geopolitical thinking that this is an issue Mexico will overcome, and overcome very quickly.”But nerves exist elsewhere. Michael Ricketts of the Jamaican Soccer Federation admitted uncertainty. “The games are at the end of March, so we still have another month to see what happens; but it is making me very nervous, to be honest,” he said. "We will be listening out for CONCACAF and FIFA to give us instructions (on) whether they are playing the games or whether they are immediately looking for other options.”Mexican leadership has responded with firm assurances. Sheinbaum said there is “every guarantee” the matches will proceed and insisted there is “no risk.” FIFA remains in regular contact, monitoring without panic.For now, the plan holds. Stadiums are being prepared. Tickets are in demand. And amid the noise, football’s governing body is choosing trust over fear.