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Mexico Unveils 100,000-Strong Security Plan for 2026 World Cup Matches

Officials cast the plan as a direct response to cartel violence following the killing of 'El Mencho'.

Overview

  • The plan fields more than 100,000 police, soldiers and private guards across Mexico City, Guadalajara and Monterrey to secure 13 matches.
  • Security rings will surround stadiums, team hotels, airports and fan zones, supported by drones, military aircraft and bomb-sniffing dogs.
  • The tournament runs June 11 to July 19, with the opening match scheduled for June 11 in Mexico City.
  • Authorities say visitors face "no risk," a message echoed by FIFA president Gianni Infantino, who said he feels "very reassured."
  • The announcement follows the Feb. 22 operation near Guadalajara that fatally wounded cartel leader Nemesio "El Mencho" Oseguera Cervantes and triggered unrest that left at least 74 people dead.