Mexico World Cup 2026: 100,000 Security Personnel Deployed Amid Cartel Violence
Guadalajara is preparing to host four matches during the to FIFA World Cup, even as Mexico grapples with ongoing security concerns stemming from drug cartel violence. The city, capital of Jalisco state, has seen increased unrest in recent weeks, with over 12,000 people reported missing in the region.
Despite the challenges, Mexican authorities are implementing a massive security plan, dubbed ‘Plan Kukulkan,’ to ensure the safety of fans and participants. The plan will deploy “just over 99,000 personnel” across host cities and nearby tourist destinations, according to Roman Villalvazo Barrios, head of Mexico’s World Cup co-ordination centre. This includes 20,000 military personnel and 55,000 police officers, supplemented by private security, and a fleet of 2,500 vehicles, 24 aircraft, anti-drone systems, and specialized canine units.
The security measures reach in response to recent escalations involving the Jalisco Modern Generation (CJNG) drug cartel, one of Mexico’s most powerful criminal organizations. The CJNG has engaged in armed confrontations with the Mexican military, blocked roadways, and set vehicles ablaze following an army operation that resulted in the death of its leader, Nemesio Oseguera Cervantes, known as ‘El Mencho.’ El Mencho, Mexico’s most wanted man, was too subject to a $15 million bounty offered by the United States.
President Claudia Sheinbaum presented the security plan on , and both FIFA and Sheinbaum have expressed confidence that the violence will not disrupt the tournament. FIFA President Gianni Infantino stated he feels “very reassured”
that Mexico can successfully host World Cup games.
Guadalajara Stadium, also known as Estadio Akron, will be the venue for all four matches in the city. The stadium has a capacity of approximately 48,000 and is home to Chivas of Liga MX. The venue will temporarily be rebranded for FIFA during the tournament.
The schedule of matches in Guadalajara is as follows:
- : South Korea vs. UEFA playoff winner D (Czechia, Republic of Ireland, Denmark, North Macedonia) –
- : Mexico vs. South Korea –
- : Colombia vs. FIFA playoff winner 1 (New Caledonia, Jamaica, DR Congo) –
- : Uruguay vs. Spain –
The match between Uruguay and Spain on is highlighted as a potentially decisive group stage encounter, pitting Uruguay’s defensive strength against Spain’s possession-based style. Mexico will also benefit from hosting a home match against South Korea, a key fixture in Group A.
The opening match of the tournament, featuring Mexico against South Africa, will be held in Mexico City. Should the Republic of Ireland qualify through the World Cup play-offs, they are scheduled to face South Korea in Guadalajara and Mexico in Mexico City, both as part of Group A matches.
Beyond these group stage games, Guadalajara is slated to host two Round of 32 matches and one Round of 16 tie, though the specific matchups for those later stages remain to be determined. The focus for now is on ensuring a secure and welcoming environment for the initial group games, despite the backdrop of ongoing security challenges in the region.