GUADALAJARA, Mexico – Thousands of Mexican soccer enthusiasts found a peaceful escape on Saturday while viewing the FIFA World Cup trophy, just seven days after their country experienced significant violent unrest.
The death and capture of the nation’s top-priority drug kingpin, Nemesio “El Mencho” Oseguera, the previous Sunday sparked widespread violence, including the burning of vehicles and commercial properties.
Guadalajara, the capital city of Jalisco state and home to Akron Stadium – both a World Cup host venue and current location of the trophy display – saw the heaviest concentration of these violent episodes.
Under heavy security from Mexico’s military forces, National Guard units, and Jalisco state law enforcement, the trophy made its arrival at Akron Stadium in Zapopan, which sits within the greater Guadalajara metropolitan region.
“From this platform, we can affirm that Mexico is at peace, and there is tranquility to enjoy soccer,” declared Mexico’s Interior Minister Rosa Icela Rodriguez during the trophy ceremony, which featured appearances by former professional players Hugo Sanchez and Roque Junior.
“We would like to thank FIFA, the organisers, and the government of Jalisco for their trust, coordination with the Mexican government, and the relationship we maintain to make this international event a glorious experience,” Rodriguez continued.
The display includes not only the championship trophy but also memorabilia from past World Cup tournaments, including historic soccer balls and team jerseys.
“I think the passion for soccer is greater than anything else, so welcome everyone. I believe that the necessary measures are being taken, they have been preparing for a long time, so I don’t see why it couldn’t be held here (the World Cup),” fan Beny Martinez shared with reporters at the trophy event.
Akron Stadium is scheduled to host World Cup qualification matches featuring New Caledonia, Jamaica, and the Republic of Congo between March 26-31.
The venue will also serve as the site for four opening-round World Cup games.
“Today, I would like to express my deepest gratitude to the people of Jalisco, who showed solidarity and extraordinary responsibility during the events we experienced,” stated Jalisco Governor Pablo Lemus.
“Today, Jalisco, I have no doubt, is establishing itself as the most Mexican World Cup venue,” the governor added.
The championship trophy will stay in Guadalajara through March 2, before continuing its tour to additional Mexican cities, including fellow host city Monterrey, and concluding in Mexico City this June.
“I think that even though it will be in the United States, Canada, and Mexico, Mexico is more outrageous, more joyful, and, without a doubt, a better host,” commented Julian Lili, another attendee at the trophy exhibition.
