Mexico will deploy approximately 100,000 security personnel to ensure safe hosting of the 2026 FIFA World Cup amid concerns over public safety due to drug cartel violence.
According to AFP and other international news outlets on the 8th, Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum announced a World Cup security plan dubbed "Plan Kukulkan."
Mexico has been experiencing violence nationwide following the killing of "El Mencho," the notorious leader of a drug cartel criminal organization.
The Mexican government plans to station approximately 99,000 security personnel, including 20,000 soldiers and 55,000 police officers, in the World Cup host cities of Mexico City, Monterrey, and Guadalajara. The deployment will include 2,500 military and civilian vehicles, 24 aircraft, a drone defense system, and explosive and drug detection dogs.
Mexico will host a total of 13 matches, including the opening game between Mexico and South Africa on June 12.
