FIFA is considering excluding Mexico from the 2026 World Cup for security reasons
International media reports indicate that FIFA has begun a comprehensive and thorough assessment of the security situation in Mexico, potentially leading to its exclusion from co-hosting the 2026 World Cup with the United States and Canada. This move comes amid escalating violence and riots linked to organized crime, particularly the Jalisco New Generation Cartel, raising serious concerns among FIFA officials about the safety of delegations and fans.
A rich history threatened with loss:
Mexico holds a unique place in the world of football, having successfully hosted the World Cup in 1970 and 1986, and its stadiums have witnessed the triumphs of legends like Pelé and Maradona. The historic Azteca Stadium was slated to make history by hosting the opening match of the 2026 World Cup, becoming the first stadium in history to host the opening match of the tournament three times. However, current security threats could deprive Mexico of this honor, a significant blow to the country's footballing heritage and to its passionate fans.
Security concerns and their impact on the tournament
have led FIFA's Emergency Committee to prioritize the safety of participating teams and fans as a non-negotiable objective. The committee is seriously considering moving the 35 matches scheduled for the three Mexican cities (Mexico City, Guadalajara, and Monterrey), including the opening ceremony, to the United States or Canada. This concern comes despite the Mexican government's pledges to implement unprecedented security plans, including the deployment of advanced fixed and mobile anti-drone systems around stadiums and fan zones, in an effort to reassure the international community.
The potential repercussions
of a disqualification decision would extend beyond simply losing the hosting rights. It could also include relocating Mexico's group stage matches, which were scheduled to be played at home in Guadalajara and Monterrey. Furthermore, Mexico risks losing its bid to host the World Cup qualifying playoffs if the current instability persists. The world is anxiously awaiting FIFA's final decision, which will have to balance the desire to maintain the tripartite format with the paramount importance of ensuring a safe environment for the world's biggest sporting event.
