In anticipation of the 2026 World Cup, the National Guard in Mexico has announced that they will begin operations at the Mexico City International Airport (AICM) to curb the activity of app-based drivers such as Uber and Didi. This decision comes as part of an effort to ensure safety for users and uphold legal standards concerning transportation services. Starting from March 12, the National Guard aims to inhibit irregular transportation services in the area, leading to potential tensions between various stakeholders involved in the ongoing transportation debate.

The situation in Mexico regarding app-based transportation services has been contentious for some time, with legal disputes over the right to operate in federally restricted areas like the AICM. Traditional taxi owners have accused app services of noncompliance with existing regulations, arguing that their operation undermines the security and legality of transportation for users. Conversely, app companies maintain that they have legal resolutions that allow them to provide services at the airport, leading to a complicated and adversarial relationship between them and traditional taxi services.

As the World Cup approaches, heightened security measures and operational restrictions could significantly impact the transportation landscape. The National Guard's interventions may not only aim to preserve order but also reflect broader concerns about the quality and safety of transportation services in Mexico City. This development could influence users' choices for ground transportation, emphasizing the ongoing struggle between traditional taxi services and the modernization associated with app-based transport services.