Portugal's football team is contemplating not attending a scheduled friendly in Mexico City due to safety concerns following recent violence linked to cartel activities.
The Portuguese Football Federation (FPF) is currently deliberating whether to proceed with their scheduled friendly match against Mexico in Mexico City on March 28, citing safety concerns. This match is intended to celebrate the reopening of the historic Estadio Azteca after renovations in preparation for the upcoming FIFA World Cup, where Mexico is one of the three host nations along with the USA and Canada. However, recent events have raised alarm around security and safety during the trip.
The potential cancellation of the friendly comes on the heels of unrest in Mexico following the death of a notorious cartel leader, Nemesio Oseguera Cervantes, known as El Mencho. Cervantes was killed by Mexican military forces in Jalisco as he attempted to evade capture, triggering violent protests and clashes in several regions of the country. Such instability could pose risks not only for the Portuguese national team but also for the broader football community attending the match, especially considering the high-profile nature of the event in light of the World Cup preparations.
The FPF's concerns highlight ongoing security issues in Mexico and the implications these have for international sports events. With the World Cup set to take place in just a few months, ensuring safety for participating teams and fans will be paramount. Cancelling or modifying international fixtures in regions experiencing unrest may become more frequent as teams prioritize their players' safety over scheduled commitments, which could affect the landscape of international football leading up to the tournament.
