After El Mencho's death sparked violence, can Mexico host World Cup? - Los Angeles Times

Los Angeles Times

by Eduard Cauich

February 25, 2026

AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary

The death of Nemesio Oseguera Cervantes, known as "El Mencho," the leader of the Jalisco New Generation Cartel, has sparked widespread violence in Jalisco, Mexico, raising concerns about the safety of hosting World Cup matches this summer. The violence erupted after his killing by Mexican army forces, including roadblocks and vehicle fires, which led to over 60 deaths, many of whom were soldiers. This chaos has left fans like Gerardo Tavárez, a Los Angeles resident planning a trip with his family for the World Cup, nervous and considering canceling his plans due to safety fears. Jalisco is set to host several key matches, including Mexico's second game against South Korea and a highly anticipated match between Spain and Uruguay. The state expects over three million visitors during the tournament, many from Southern California. However, recent events have cast doubt on Mexico's ability to ensure security for international guests. While Mexican authorities, including President Claudia Sheinbaum, have assured the public that calm has been restored and dismissed claims of heightened risks as false information amplified on social media, local residents and visitors remain uneasy. The violence in Jalisco highlights broader challenges faced by Mexico in managing its reputation as a safe destination for major international events. With millions of tourists expected during the World Cup, the country's ability to maintain stability is under close scrutiny. The incident has also prompted concerns among U.S. officials, with White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt emphasizing that no American citizens have been directly affected and urging adherence to State Department guidelines. This situation matters as it underscores the delicate balance between hosting global events and ensuring public safety, particularly in regions grappling with organized crime. For Mexico, successfully managing the World Cup is not just about sports—it's a test of its ability to project stability and attract international visitors. The outcome could shape perceptions of Mexico's readiness for future global gatherings and

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Originally published on Los Angeles Times on 2/25/2026