2026 World Cup in doubt: Calls grow for Mexico to be stripped of hosting rights

Mexico has lived a couple of very tense days, to say the least, after the violence unleashed by the capture and death of Nemesio Oseguera 'El Mencho', alleged leader of the Jalisco Cartel. That is why there are reports that sponsors and organizations expressed concern about security in Mexico ahead of the 2026 World Cup , for which FIFA has already requested official information.

With just over three months to go until the start of the 2026 World Cup , security in Mexico is terrible, which has cast doubt on whether the country, and especially Guadalajara , is ready at this time for an event of the magnitude of a World Cup .

FIFA requests information on security in Mexico

According to unofficial journalistic reports, FIFA has already requested formal information from the Mexican government to know the security situation after the disturbances that occurred after the death of " El Mencho ".

Images of roadblocks, arson and attacks in different regions quickly circulated in international media, raising concerns about the context in which the World Cup will be held.

Although some organizations and sponsors have reportedly asked to review the Mexican venue, there is no official indication that Mexico could lose matches in the 2026 World Cup.

Guadalajara under the international spotlight

The focus is particularly on Guadalajara , one of the three Mexican cities hosting the tournament along with Mexico City and Monterrey. Jalisco will host important matches in the championship, including group stage matches and international play-off games scheduled for March. However, the recent violence has temporarily changed the international perception of the city.

The state government declared a red code, suspending public transportation, classes after the clashes resulting from the federal operation in the region and even Liga MX matches, so the question is pertinent: If Guadalajara is not in a condition to host local league matches today, what ensures that in three months it will be able to host World Cup matches?

The country's image is at stake. International sponsors and diplomatic representations have reportedly expressed concern to FIFA about the stability needed to host an event the size of the World Cup.

The World Cup schedule has Guadalajara as the confirmed venue for several important matches:

Is the 2026 World Cup in Mexico at risk?

For now, the answer is clear: there is no official decision to change the organization of the tournament. However, Mexico will be under close scrutiny and the next few days will be crucial to see if FIFA might consider making such a big change with so little time before the soccer event begins.