According to a report by the Financial Times, Guadalajara is preparing to host four World Cup matches under heightened security due to the presence of the Jalisco New Generation cartel. Violence escalated in February after the reported killing of cartel leader Nemesio “El Mencho” Oseguera.
Analysts suggest the cartel may avoid major disruptions during the tournament because maintaining stability serves its economic interests. After riots that shut down Jalisco’s capital for 48 hours, the Mexican government deployed federal agents and private security forces to host cities such as Guadalajara, Monterrey, and Mexico City.
President Claudia Sheinbaum stated that Mexico is safe for visitors. Experts believe the cartel is unlikely to provoke further pressure from authorities in Mexico and the United States. One former police official described the situation as a “criminal peace,” where cartel control reduces some petty crimes, despite ongoing concerns such as missing persons and the discovery of mass graves.
Tourism declined sharply after the February violence but has partially recovered. Officials insist no tourists were harmed and say online images exaggerated the situation. Analysts warn that the expected 3 million visitors could also attract criminal activities like drug dealing and fraud. There are also concerns that El Mencho’s death could lead to internal conflicts or retaliation in the coming months.