Mexican cartel clashes fuel worries in lead up to FIFA World Cup

Associated Press (AP)EN 7 min read 100% complete by By MEGAN JANETSKYFebruary 24, 2026 at 08:53 AM

AI Summary

long article 7 min

Following the Mexican army's killing of Nemesio "El Mencho" Oseguera Cervantes, leader of the Jalisco New Generation Cartel, Mexico experienced widespread violence on Sunday, February 22, 2026. Cartel members retaliated by blocking roads with burning vehicles in over 20 states, effectively turning Guadalajara into a ghost town. Twenty-five members of the Mexican National Guard were killed in six separate attacks. The events raise concerns about safety and security in Mexico as it prepares to co-host the FIFA World Cup. President Claudia Sheinbaum addressed the situation at a press conference in Mexico City on Monday, February 23, 2026.

Key Entities & Roles

Key Player Opposition Context

United States State Department 30% FIFA World Cup 30% Mexico City 35% Claudia Sheinbaum 40% Guadalajara ×360% Jalisco ×260% Mexican National Guard ×270% Mexican Army ×575% Mexico ×480% Jalisco New Generation Cartel ×790% Nemesio Rubén Oseguera Cervantes (El Mencho) ×795%

Keywords

mexican cartel clashes 90% jalisco new generation cartel 80% drug cartel 70% fifa world cup 70% violence 60% el mencho 60% mexican national guard 50% security 40%