In the wake of violence triggered by the death of Nemesio Oseguera, known as 'Mencho', the head of the Jalisco Nueva Generación Cartel, officials responsible for the 2026 World Cup in Mexico are facing intense scrutiny regarding the security situation. The Committee Organizador Local has reassured the public that operations are ongoing as planned, particularly amid concerns that such violence could impact the upcoming tournament set to begin on June 11, 2026, in Mexico City. Ecuador's national team, among others, is set to participate in this global sporting event, highlighting the broader implications of regional stability for international affairs.

The three main venues for the World Cup include Mexico City, Guadalajara, and Monterrey, with Guadalajara—a city directly experiencing the fallout from cartel violence—being under the spotlight. Organizers have stated that despite the challenges, they are able to maintain a normal working pace. This suggests a certain level of confidence in the ability of local authorities to manage security concerns, although the social climate remains tense.

Indeed, the public’s concern regarding safety measures in light of escalating drug-related violence raises questions about the practicalities of hosting such a major event. While officials assert that there haven’t been significant disruptions to World Cup preparations, many remain wary of potential repercussions that violence might have on both attendance and the overall success of the tournament.