Mexican officials have pleaded with Donald Trump to halt the pursuit of the world’s most notorious drug lord, fearing potential violence during the World Cup.
In less than a year, Mexico, Canada and the US will play host to fans from around the globe for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
However, there are concerns in Mexico that the Trump administration’s chase of Nemesio Oseguera Cervantes – also known as El Mencho – could result in violent repercussions.
The Mexican government has requested US Attorney General Pam Bondi to abstain from capturing or killing the cartel leader.
Yet, US officials are worried about the influence of the Jalisco Cartel, which holds sway over businesses and several state institutions, reports the Mirror.
A high-ranking official from the Jalisco cartel recently disclosed that Oseguera’s bodyguards include elite commandos from Russia and state-of-the-art weaponry, according to Milenio reports.
A significant strike against the drug lord could potentially wreak havoc in Guadalajara, one of the three main venues hosting international matches.
Instead, Mexico plans to seek a ceasefire during the World Cup. In practical terms, this would mean suspending the search for cartel members provided they remain silent during the world’s largest sporting event.
However, the crux of the issue is that any ceasefire relies on the so-called goodwill of the cartels, not the government’s ability to tackle them. It’s not uncommon for the World Cup to be marred by violence, with paramilitary and terrorist groups exploiting the event.
Recently, Trump commanded a strike on a boat off the Venezuelan coast, with his administration alleging there were 11 suspected gang members on board. The legality of this action has been questioned by several legal experts.
The strike is seen as an attempt to provoke Venezuela’s dictator, Nicolas Maduro. There’s been speculation among analysts about whether the Trump administration would be willing to instigate regime change in Venezuela.
On 18 June 1994, during a World Cup match between Italy and Ireland, authorities discovered the site of a massacre. The loyalist Ulster Volunteer Force, who wished to remain part of the UK union, stormed into a pub in Loughinisland, County Down and opened fire.
Six civilians lost their lives in the massacre, and five others were injured. The pub was known to be frequented by Catholics.