Claudia Sheinbaum says Guadalajara is secure for World Cup matches despite recent clashes following the killing of a top drug cartel leader

Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum has assured football fans of their safety ahead of upcoming World Cup matches in Guadalajara, despite recent cartel-related violence in the city.

Sheinbaum said there is no security risk to supporters traveling to Guadalajara, stressing that authorities have the situation under control and that security measures have been reinforced.

Her assurance follows a wave of violence triggered by the military killing of notorious drug lord Nemesio “El Mencho” Oseguera, the leader of the Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG), one of the most wanted criminal figures in both Mexico and the United States.

Oseguera was killed during a military operation on February 22, 2026, about 130 kilometres (80 miles) from Guadalajara, the capital of Jalisco State. His death reportedly sparked retaliatory attacks by cartel members, leading to fierce gun battles with security forces and multiple casualties across parts of the country.

In response to inquiries, world football governing body FIFA declined to comment on the violence.

Authorities say calm has since returned to Jalisco, with businesses beginning to reopen and schools expected to resume operations as normal.