With less than four months until the first whistle of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, the hosting status of Mexico has been under intense global scrutiny. However, FIFA President Gianni Infantino has moved to silence the skeptics. In a fresh statement issued late this week (February 26–27, 2026), Infantino reaffirmed his "absolute and total confidence" in Mexico’s ability to stage the tournament safely.
The statement follows a week of significant unrest in Mexico after the death of notorious cartel leader Nemesio "El Mencho" Oseguera Cervantes, which led to retaliatory violence in several states, including the host city of Guadalajara.
The Call That Calmed the Storm
The centerpiece of Infantino's update was a high-level conversation with Mexico’s President, Claudia Sheinbaum. Following their call, Infantino took to social media and official FIFA channels to deliver a clear message to the 48 participating nations and millions of traveling fans.
"I had an excellent conversation earlier today with Mexico President, Claudia Sheinbaum. I reiterated our full confidence in the host country and look forward to it staging all scheduled matches there at what wi
ll be the most inclusive and the greatest FIFA World Cup eve r." — Gianni Infantino
President Sheinbaum echoed this sentiment, posting on X (formerly Twitter) that the government and FIFA continue to "work as usual" to ensure a successful event, emphasizing that there is "no risk" to visitors.
Security Monitoring: The Litmus Test
While the public message is one of unity, Infantino acknowledged that FIFA is not ignoring the reality on the ground.
Active Monitoring: Infantino confirmed that FIFA remains in "regular contact" with federal authorities and is closely watching the security situation, particularly in Guadalajara, which is set to host four matches.
The Intercontinental Playoffs: A crucial "litmus test" arrives in late March when Guadalajara hosts the World Cup qualifying playoffs. Teams like Jamaica, New Caledonia, and the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) are scheduled to compete there. Their experience will be a decisive indicator of the security protocols in place.
Portugal Friendly: The Portuguese Football Federation has also been vocal, stating they are "closely monitoring" the situation ahead of their scheduled friendly against Mexico in Mexico City next month.
The Plan for Mexico’s 13 Matches
Despite rumors of a "Secret Clause" that could move games to the US or Canada, Infantino’s statement confirms that all 13 scheduled matches in Mexico remain firmly on the calendar:
| Host City | Match Count | Key Highlight |
| Mexico City | 5 Matches | The Opening Ceremony and Match 1 at the Estadio Azteca. |
| Guadalajara | 4 Matches | Set to host South Korea and Colombia in high-stakes group games. |
| Monterrey | 4 Matches | Hosting critical group stage clashes at the Estadio BBVA. |
Why FIFA is Standing Firm
Infrastructure and tradition are on Mexico's side. Infantino noted that Mexico is a "great football country" that has successfully hosted two previous World Cups (1970 and 1986). He dismissed the idea that localized unrest should derail a global event, remarking, "We don't live on the moon... that's why we have governments and police who will ensure order."
While a World Cup diving event in Guadalajara was recently canceled as a precaution, FIFA appears committed to the idea that the "footballing cathedral" of the Estadio Azteca must host the tournament's curtain-raiser on June 11, 2026.