In a press briefing, President Claudia Sheinbaum of Mexico stated that there are "all guarantees" for the upcoming 2026 World Cup, which will be held in conjunction with the United States and Canada. This assurance follows a recent surge of violence in Jalisco caused by a federal operation aimed at capturing Nemesio Oseguera Cervantes, known as 'El Mencho', who leads the Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG). Sheinbaum was responding to concerns regarding the safety of the event due to this violence, which included roadblocks and armed confrontations across various states.

The violence has not only raised alarms within Mexico but also drawn international scrutiny, particularly regarding the country’s ability to ensure safety during high-profile events like the World Cup. Sheinbaum's insistence that there are "no risks, none" was aimed at calming fears among the public and potential visitors to the country, highlighting the government's commitment to maintaining order and security during the tournament.

With five matches scheduled to be held at the Estadio Azteca in Mexico City, the implications of Sheinbaum's statements extend beyond just optics. They signal the Mexican government's determination to counteract negative perceptions surrounding safety and security during the World Cup, aligning with their broader strategies to showcase the country as a safe and welcoming host for international events. As the countdown to the tournament continues, authorities are likely to ramp up security measures to reassure both locals and tourists alike.