British nationals advised to travel, Mexican cartel’s stance on ruining World Cup with violence

British football fans are being told what to expect if they travel to Mexico for the World Cup after violence erupts following the death of a drug lord

Experts say Mexican cartels could go on hiatus during the World Cup despite outbreaks of violence in the country. The Mexican government’s attempt to arrest the notorious leader of the Jalisco New Generation cartel, and the subsequent backlash over his death, has left scores dead, authorities said this week.

The death toll recorded by security authorities includes security forces and alleged cartel members. Nemesio Oseguera Cervantes, also known as “El Mencho,” is the head of one of Mexico’s rapidly expanding criminal organizations, notorious for smuggling Class A drugs into the United States and assaulting government officials.

His death sparked widespread violence by the organization, including roadblocks and vehicle torching. The wave of unrest has led to calls for Mexico to be stripped of its role in hosting the World Cup. Domestically, 13 matches are scheduled to be held in three cities: Mexico City, Guadalajara and Monterrey.

If England win their group, their round of 16 matches will be played in Mexico City. If Scotland finish second in their group, a Round of 32 tie will be played in Monterrey.

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However, foreign visitors are being told they should remain safely in the country because it is in the cartels’ best interest to host the World Cup, given their economic stake in their country’s assets.

read more: Mexico decides to hold World Cup warm-up matches despite FIFA’s opposition to changing match schedulesread more: 2026 World Cup: Mexico – only host country with true home advantage

Javier Escauriza, assistant professor of criminal law at the University of Nottingham, told the BBC: “In general, cartels have a financial interest in holding the World Cup peacefully.

“Yes, they pay politicians and local police, but they also buy restaurants and own hotels. They are part of the economic system. It’s beneficial for them to have Brits, Americans, etc. go to Mexico and spend their money and have a good time.”

Dr Karina García Reyes, senior lecturer in criminology at UWE Bristol, said the risk of traveling to Mexico during the tournament was “moderate”. She said: “In terms of tourists, I think there will be a moderate risk.

“As long as there are no further military operations this week, we hope that authorities in the most affected areas will be able to address the potential risks, and overall we expect that tourists will be safe as long as they follow the instructions of the authorities.”

FIFA confirmed it was “closely monitoring” the situation in Mexico. A spokesperson said the governing body was “in constant contact with the authorities”.

They went on to say, “We will continue to follow actions and directives from various government agencies with the goal of maintaining public safety and restoring normalcy, and we reiterate our close cooperation with federal, state, and local governments.”

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