Multiple soccer matches across Mexico were called off indefinitely following widespread violence that erupted near Guadalajara after military forces killed a notorious cartel leader, prompting FIFA to closely watch the situation in what will be a 2026 World Cup host city.
The violence began after Nemesio Oseguera, nicknamed “El Mencho” and the leader behind the notorious Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG), died while in custody following injuries sustained during a special forces raid along Mexico’s Pacific coastline in Jalisco state, defense ministry officials confirmed.
“At FIFA Mexico, we are closely monitoring the situation in Jalisco and remain in constant communication with the authorities,” a FIFA spokesperson told Reuters.
“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.”
Estadio Akron, located in Zapopan near Guadalajara, stands as one of three Mexican stadiums designated to host World Cup matches this summer. The venue is also slated to host playoff games featuring Congo, Jamaica and New Caledonia between March 26-31.
Mexican league officials announced through social media that two premier matches set for Sunday would be delayed without a new date – Queretaro versus FC Juarez in men’s competition and Chivas versus America in women’s play.
Two lower-division contests scheduled for the same day were similarly canceled, according to local media outlets.
A women’s match between Necaxa and Queretaro in Aguascalientes was temporarily halted Sunday when players rushed off the field after hearing loud sounds outside Estadio Victoria, which media outlets identified as gunfire. Play eventually continued, with Necaxa claiming a 2-1 victory.
Mexico’s national squad is scheduled to meet Iceland Wednesday in an international friendly at Corregidora Stadium in Queretaro.
Organizers of the Mexican Open men’s tennis championship in Acapulco announced the tournament would start Monday as planned with established safety measures in place.
The Merida Open women’s tennis event in eastern Mexico also continued without interruption.
“The WTA is aware of security incidents reported in parts of western Mexico,” the WTA said in a statement, adding that authorities had increased police presence around the tournament venue.
“The safety of players, staff, and spectators remains our top priority.”
Following news of El Mencho’s death, suspected cartel associates blocked major highways with burning vehicles and set fire to businesses across more than six states. Officials reported no civilian fatalities.
In Jalisco’s tourist destination Puerto Vallarta, worried visitors posted on social media about thick black smoke clouds rising above the bay area.
Air Canada, United Airlines, Aeromexico and American Airlines all suspended flight operations in the affected region.
