Neuendorf raises Mexico security concern as Sheinbaum insists World Cup has guarantees

German Football Association (DFB) president Bernd Neuendorf has raised concern about cartel-related violence in Mexico as preparations continue for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, adding to scrutiny around security planning in one of the tournament’s three host nations.The concern comes after the killing of Nemesio Rubén Oseguera Cervantes, known as ‘El Mencho’, the leader of the Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG), during a Mexican military operation triggered retaliatory unrest including roadblocks, arson and clashes with security forces, particularly in Jalisco state.Jalisco’s capital Guadalajara is one of Mexico’s World Cup host cities and is due to stage four matches, making the recent violence a major issue for tournament operations, public confidence and travel planning.Mexico president Claudia Sheinbaum has sought to calm concerns and said there are “all the guarantees” for the tournament to be held in Mexico.Asked whether World Cup matches in Mexico would pose a risk to visiting supporters, Sheinbaum said there was “no risk.”She also said the situation was continuing to normalise, although she acknowledged further roadblocks had appeared overnight as security forces worked to restore order and maintain public safety.FIFA has also said it is monitoring the situation closely and remains in contact with the authorities.A FIFA spokesperson said: “We will continue to follow the actions and directions from the different government agencies, aimed at maintaining public safety and restoring normalcy, and we reiterate our close collaboration with federal, state, and local authorities.”The security concerns have already had a direct football impact, with local Mexican leagues postponing matches after violence flared following the operation in which Oseguera was killed.Mexico is due to host 13 matches at the 2026 World Cup, including fixtures in Mexico City, Monterrey and Guadalajara, as well as preliminary warm-up matches before the tournament opens on 11 June.