Two weeks after the wave of violence
100,000 emergency services are supposed to secure the World Cup in Mexico
March 6, 2026 – 8:32 p.mReading time: 1 min.
A wave of violence rocked Mexico after the death of a drug lord. Now the government has presented a massive security plan for the World Cup.
Mexico has presented its security plan for the 2026 World Cup. More than 100,000 soldiers, police officers and private security forces are expected to maintain order at the venues this summer – supported by drones, military aircraft and explosives detection dogs.
Three to four security rings should be set up at all important World Cup locations – around stadiums, team hotels, airports and fan zones. This was announced by General Román Villalvazo. He heads the World Cup security coordination center in Mexico. President Claudia Sheinbaum said at a press conference in Guadalajara: “As you can see, we are well prepared.”
The background is a wave of violence on February 22nd. The trigger was the death of drug lord Nemesio Oseguera Cervantes, known as “El Mencho”, during an operation to arrest him. Vehicles were set on fire and illegal roadblocks were set up in several Mexican states. More than 70 people were killed. The government assured that the safety of the teams and visitors was guaranteed.
Mexico is hosting the World Cup together with the USA and Canada. 13 games will be played in Mexico City, Guadalajara and Monterrey. The opening game will take place on June 11th in the capital. European champions Spain, Mexico and South Korea, among others, play in Guadalajara.
