FIFA’s Infantino has ‘complete confidence’ in Mexico to host World Cup games despite cartel violence

FIFA President Gianni Infantino has expressed "complete confidence" in Mexico's ability to host World Cup games despite cartel violence. The violence erupted after the death of a powerful drug lord, Nemesio Rubén Oseguera Cervantes, also known as "El Mencho," who led the Jalisco New Generation Cartel. The Mexican army killed him on Sunday, sparking several days of violence that has resulted in at least 70 deaths and the postponement of four high-level soccer matches. Thirteen World Cup matches are scheduled to be held in Mexico, including the opening game in Mexico City on June 11. Infantino stated that he has confidence in Mexico's president, Claudia Sheinbaum, and authorities to ensure order and security during the event. The FIFA president believes that governments and law enforcement agencies will handle the situation effectively.

Following the reported death and capture of drug lord "El Mencho," the Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG) has instigated widespread violence across 20 Mexican states. The BBC reports that many towns and cities have become war zones due to the cartel's actions. BBC international correspondent Quentin Sommerville traveled to Culiacán in Sinaloa state, a hotspot experiencing internal conflict after the removal and imprisonment of its cartel leader, Ismael "El Mayo" Zambada. The report highlights the experiences of paramedics in Culiacán, who are struggling to cope with the unprecedented and prolonged violence. The violence is attributed to the power vacuum and subsequent fighting for control within and between cartels.