Micah Jonah, March 7, 2026
Claudia Sheinbaum has announced plans to deploy about 100,000 security personnel across the country during the upcoming 2026 FIFA World Cup.
The announcement was made during a visit to a suburb of Guadalajara, the capital of Jalisco, where authorities are seeking to reassure residents and international visitors about safety ahead of the tournament.
Mexico will host matches in three cities: Guadalajara, Mexico City and Monterrey, with a total of 13 games scheduled across the venues.
Speaking alongside members of her security cabinet, Sheinbaum said the government is committed to ensuring peace and security in the host cities.
“We are here to tell the people of Jalisco that we are working together for peace, security and the wellbeing of the residents of this state,” she said.
The security deployment follows a wave of violence in the region after Mexican forces launched a military operation on February 22 targeting cartel leader Nemesio Oseguera Cervantes, who was killed during an exchange of gunfire.
Authorities said the security plan will involve about 20,000 military personnel, including members of the Mexican National Guard, alongside 55,000 police officers and additional private security personnel.
Officials say the country is also coordinating security measures with co hosts United States and Canada.
The 2026 World Cup is scheduled to begin on June 11, with the opening match taking place in Mexico City before additional matches are played in Guadalajara and Monterrey.
Mexican authorities say the large security deployment is aimed at ensuring the tournament proceeds safely and that the country presents a secure environment for international visitors.
