Chaos in Mexico: Games interrupted by gunfire put World Cup at risk?

Mexico is plunged into absolute chaos, following the death of Nemesio Oseguera Cervantes, known as ‘El Mencho’, the leader of the Jalisco cartel, which has triggered an unprecedented wave of violence. Since the announcement of his death, the nation has been overrun by members of the criminal organization, resulting in at least 26 fatalities so far, with expectations that this number may rise. The situation is alarming, and it is so critical that the Italian Ministry of Foreign Affairs has already issued a warning for citizens to avoid unnecessary travel to the country and to follow the guidance of local authorities.

We are facing a kind of civil war, with schools closed and the entire country under siege. This scenario becomes even more concerning with the World Cup approaching, an event that, let us remember, will have some of its matches held right here in Mexico. The Mexican national team, known as ‘el Tricolor’, is expected to play 13 of the 104 matches in the competition, including the much-anticipated opening game at the iconic Estadio Azteca, scheduled for June 11.

Social media is filled with concerns, with many questioning the safety of the event in light of recent happenings. Amid this uncertainty, FIFA must be on high alert. With so little time until the kickoff, it is impossible for the organization not to be worried about the current situation in the country.

The chaos intensified over the weekend, leading the Mexican Football Federation to suspend and cancel several matches, including one in the men’s division and another in the women’s league. In one of those games, players and referees had to leave the field hastily after hearing gunfire and explosions nearby. In such extreme circumstances, football is clearly not the priority.

Meanwhile, the Mexican Football Federation has yet to comment on the friendly match that ‘el Tricolor’ is scheduled to play against Iceland at the Estadio Corregidora in Querétaro this Wednesday. The possibility of cancellation is high, if not certain. What is clear is that this alarming scenario leaves us all concerned, especially with the World Cup approaching, an event that will bring the world’s attention to Mexico.