Security Concerns Could Cost Mexico 2026 World Cup Hosting Duties

Fresh reports have revealed that FIFA is seriously evaluating the possibility of removing Mexico from its role as co-host of the 2026 FIFA World Cup amid escalating violence across several regions of the country.

According to sports media sources, FIFA’s emergency committee has begun assessing security risks linked to ongoing cartel-related unrest, placing the safety of national teams, officials, and supporters at the forefront of its deliberations.

The reported review follows a surge in violence attributed to organized crime groups, including the powerful Jalisco New Generation Cartel. 

Authorities are said to be concerned that the instability could undermine Mexico’s operational readiness less than two years before the tournament is scheduled to kick off.

If a formal decision were taken to withdraw hosting rights, Mexico would lose all its scheduled matches, with the tournament potentially staged entirely in the United States and Canada, an unprecedented move in World Cup history.

Mexico is set to co-host the 2026 edition alongside its North American partners, marking the first time the tournament will be held across three nations.

In addition to concerns over the main tournament, Mexico could also lose the right to stage upcoming intercontinental play-off matches scheduled for next month. Reports suggest contingency plans are being explored to relocate those fixtures to an alternative host nation if security conditions deteriorate further.

The Embassy of the United States in Mexico has urged American citizens to remain indoors and avoid non-essential travel amid ongoing security operations. 

The advisory followed violent unrest triggered by the reported killing of Nemesio Oseguera Cervantes, widely known as “El Mencho,” one of the country’s most notorious cartel leaders.

U.S. authorities had previously offered a $15 million reward for information leading to his capture, citing allegations of large-scale trafficking of cocaine, fentanyl, and methamphetamine into the United States.

Mexican security forces continue operations aimed at containing retaliatory violence, while uncertainty surrounds the country’s role in hosting the historic 2026 World Cup. FIFA has yet to issue an official statement, but mounting pressure underscores the gravity of the situation.