World Cup 2026: Will violence and protests test Mexico’s cohost status?
As the World Cup 2026 approaches, safety concerns are mounting in Mexico, which will host the tournament opener on June 11. Recent incidents of violence, including a mass shooting, have heightened fears among fans and human rights groups. The Mexican government is deploying security personnel to address these issues, but critics argue that deeper sociopolitical problems remain unaddressed.
- ▪The World Cup 2026 will kick off in Mexico City on June 11, with the home team facing South Africa.
- ▪A recent mass shooting in Puebla has intensified security concerns ahead of the tournament.
- ▪Human rights organizations have criticized FIFA for not addressing risks to journalists and fans in Mexico.
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Sport|World Cup 2026World Cup 2026: Will violence and protests test Mexico’s cohost status?Fans and rights groups have raised safety concerns in Mexico, which opens the FIFA World Cup on June 11.ListenListen (5 mins)SaveClick here to share on social mediashare-nodesSharefacebookxwhatsapp-strokecopylinkgoogleAdd Al Jazeera on GoogleinfoSecurity forces in Mexico have been undergoing training, led by Spain's National Police riot units ahead of the World Cup [Ulises Ruiz/AFP]By Al Jazeera StaffPublished On 18 May 202618 May 2026The ongoing scrutiny of the United States as World Cup cohost, and FIFA’s role as tournament organiser, has overshadowed the growing list of security concerns and protests in Mexico where the tournament opener kicks off next month.The World Cup 2026 opens in Mexico…
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