A women's soccer match in Mexico between Necaxa and Querétaro was momentarily halted due to the sounds of explosions near the Estadio Victoria in Aguascalientes. This incident occurred in the aftermath of the assassination of a major drug cartel leader, El Mencho, prompting concerns for safety. Match referee Liz Fernanda Galan enacted safety protocols, halting the match for 15 minutes while players and officials took shelter in the locker rooms. After the situation was deemed under control, the game resumed and concluded without further incidents.

This event is part of a larger context of violence in Mexico connected to drug-related conflicts, which has increased recently, leading to multiple games being postponed in the wake of escalating violence. Reports indicated that four other soccer matches were postponed following outbreaks of violence near Guadalajara, another city set to host World Cup events in 2026. The incident underscores ongoing safety concerns in Mexican sports due to the rampant drug cartels that destabilize regions and disrupt daily life.

The implications of these violent outbreaks extend beyond immediate safety; they raise questions about the impact of drug cartel activities on social events, such as sports, and the measures required to ensure spectator safety. As Mexico prepares for major upcoming events like the 2026 World Cup, the ability to maintain security and public confidence becomes increasingly critical. These episodes highlight the intersection between sports and broader societal issues, including public safety and the influence of organized crime.