Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum has given full assurances that football fans will be safe during World Cup matches scheduled for June in Guadalajara. She said there is “no risk” to visitors despite recent violence in the area.
Her comments followed deadly clashes triggered by the military operation that killed Nemesio “El Mencho” Oseguera, leader of the Jalisco New Generation Cartel. He was killed on Sunday about 130 kilometres from Guadalajara, the capital of Jalisco state.
After his death, cartel members engaged security forces in gun battles across parts of Mexico. The clashes reportedly left dozens of people dead, including soldiers and cartel members, and forced residents and tourists to seek safety.
Despite the unrest, Sheinbaum maintained that authorities have the situation under control and that strong security measures will be in place ahead of the tournament.
Football’s global governing body, FIFA, has not issued any official statement regarding the violence.
Authorities say calm is gradually returning to Jalisco. Businesses are expected to reopen on Tuesday, while schools are set to resume activities on Wednesday.
Guadalajara is one of three Mexican cities selected to host matches during the upcoming World Cup. The tournament will be jointly hosted by the United States, Mexico and Canada.
Government officials insist that preparations for the competition will continue as planned, with security agencies working to ensure the safety of both residents and international visitors.