FIFA reaffirms support for Mexico as World Cup host: Thursday’s mañanera recapped

FIFA has reaffirmed its support for Mexico as the host of the upcoming World Cup, as discussed during President Claudia Sheinbaum's Thursday press conference. This comes amid heightened security concerns due to violence linked to drug cartels in the country. The opening match of the World Cup is scheduled to take place in Mexico City, featuring Mexico against South Africa, just under four months from now (Mexico News Daily; Euronews). Recent events have raised alarms regarding safety, particularly after the Mexican army killed the leader of a powerful drug cartel, which led to the postponement of four high-level soccer matches in a town near Guadalajara, a city close to the World Cup host site (ESPN). Despite these incidents, sources indicate that Mexico plans to proceed with its friendly match against Iceland at the Corregidora Stadium in Queretaro, demonstrating a commitment to maintaining sporting events amid unrest (ESPN). In response to the security situation, Mexican officials have met with FIFA to coordinate safety plans for the World Cup, aiming to reassure visitors about their safety during the tournament (Mexico News Daily). President Sheinbaum has publicly stated that there is "no risk" to World Cup visitors, addressing concerns raised by the dissemination of misleading videos and images that falsely depicted violence (Mexico News Daily).