In light of a surge in violence in Mexico, the Bolivian national football team has expressed its concerns regarding security as it prepares for upcoming matches. These concerns are echoed by the Portuguese national team, which is scheduled to play a friendly in the country. The violence, reportedly linked to organized crime and the recent death of a prominent criminal figure known as 'El Mencho', has raised alarms for teams visiting Mexico for international matches.

The Bolivian Football Federation (FBF) plans to formally address these concerns by submitting a letter to FIFA, urging the organization to enhance safety protocols during the qualifying rounds set for March. The FBF president, Fernando Costa, emphasized the team's commitment to ensuring their safety and expressed hopes that FIFA will take appropriate measures to protect all participating teams. The call for increased security highlights the broader implications of safety in sports and the responsibilities of hosting nations in providing a secure environment.

As international teams prepare to play in Mexico, ongoing violence presents a significant risk, and the response from FIFA will likely influence not just logistical preparations for these matches but also how future events are hosted in regions with similar safety concerns. Ensuring the safety of athletes and officials remains a priority, with the dialogue around security in sports becoming increasingly urgent in light of recent events.