On Wednesday, Gianni Infantino, the President of FIFA (International Football Federation), reiterated that there are no plans to move the World Cup playoffs away from Mexico, amid rising concerns about violence in the region. Infantino expressed confidence in the Mexican authorities, stating that they are in constant communication with Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum and her team, providing full support to ensure a successful event.

Despite the recent resurgence of safety concerns, especially for the host city of Guadalajara, Infantino insisted that they are continuously monitoring the situation but believe it will be well-handled. He conveyed his satisfaction with Mexico as one of the three host nations for the World Cup, alongside the United States and Canada. Infantino's commitment to the event reflects FIFA's strategic choice in including Mexico, a country with a rich football history.

The announcement comes at a critical time as preparations intensify for next year's World Cup. Infantino's remarks aim to ease fears surrounding the safety of the playoffs in Mexico, highlighting FIFA's confidence in the governance and security measures being implemented. The global spotlight on Mexico during this time could also impact perceptions of the country beyond sports, linking the outcomes of the event to broader social and economic implications.