Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum met with FIFA President Gianni Infantino on Monday to discuss preparations for the 2026 World Cup, which will be co-hosted by Mexico, the United States and Canada in June and July.
Sheinbaum said on social media that she had breakfast with Infantino at the National Palace, adding that 'everything is going to be wonderful.' The tournament kicks off on June 11 at the iconic Azteca Stadium in Mexico City with a match between the hosts and South Africa.
A friendly match between Mexico and Portugal was held at the stadium last Saturday as part of preparations, but was marred by the death of a fan who fell from the second tier to the ground floor in the VIP box area.
Infantino assured that the World Cup will be 'a success for Mexico.' The FIFA president has been in Mexico since last week, attending matches and events with the Mexican Football Federation.
Concerns have arisen following violent events on February 22 in several Mexican cities after the capture and death of drug lord Nemesio Oseguera Cervantes, 'El Mencho,' leader of the Jalisco New Generation Cartel. Among the cities hit was Guadalajara, one of three Mexican host cities along with Mexico City and Monterrey.
In early March, Mexican authorities presented their security plan for the World Cup, called 'Plan Kukulkán,' involving some 100,000 military and police personnel. The plan includes specialized training, early warning systems, and security measures around stadiums, airports, roads, and hotels.
