Soccer as a Potential Peacekeeper in Mexico’s Cartel Violence
One unexpected factor that might help reduce cartel violence in Mexico is the nation’s passion for soccer.
Security expert Dr. Raul Benitez shared his thoughts on the situation with the Post, noting that the Jalisco New Generation Cartel could possibly consider a temporary truce following the recent death of their leader, Nemesio “El Mencho” Oseguera, during a military operation at a country club in Tapalpa, Jalisco.
“There’s a lot of talk about it, and both sides could gain from this,” Benitez explained. “If they keep up with violent acts on highways and in cities they control, the government will face significant backlash.”
“They really need to send a clear message now. The country has to calm down, especially with the World Cup coming up. Let’s see how things look afterward, because there’s a real concern about whether games can even happen in Guadalajara,” he pointed out.
Fears about potentially relocating the World Cup grew after the military located El Mencho and other cartel members in an exclusive neighborhood. The operation reportedly resulted in 70 casualties, and the cartel retaliated by setting fire to numerous vehicles and businesses.
Benitez emphasized that it would be wise for the cartel to consider a deal with Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum, who expressed satisfaction with the military’s outcome, in order to avoid FIFA pulling Mexico from the host list.
Mexico is set to host 13 World Cup matches in areas including Zapopan, a suburb of Guadalajara, alongside Monterrey and Mexico City, as per Benitez’s comments.
“She appears quite worried. There’s pressure from World Cup organizers, and I wouldn’t be surprised if the U.S. and President Trump echo similar concerns soon,” he remarked.
“For the World Cup to proceed, Mexico needs to maintain peace. That’s the looming concern now. The government must act quickly to stabilize the country—within a week or two might be necessary.”
Estadio Akron, located just 29 miles from where El Mencho was killed, is expected to host four matches. Local reports indicate that the infamous drug lord had even purchased match tickets to distribute to politicians and business figures.
Benitez noted that travel agents have started to pull hotel bookings in Guadalajara, as soccer fans are hesitant about visiting the area.
Former DEA Director Ray Donovan, who was involved in the operation that led to Joaquín ‘El Chapo’ Guzmán’s capture and now serves as the CEO of Stack21 Solutions, expressed skepticism regarding the likelihood of the Jalisco New Generation Cartel negotiating with the government in the wake of El Mencho’s demise due to the resulting power vacuum.
“I’m not too optimistic with Sheinbaum because she appears very focused on the rule of law,” Donovan conveyed. “We need a clear indication from the cartel that they are open to discussions, but there doesn’t seem to be anyone in charge right now.”
The government took measures to reassure soccer fans in central Queretaro by deploying the army and National Guard to Estadio Corregidora, where 30,000 spectators attended a friendly match between Mexico and Iceland, resulting in a 4-0 victory.
Mexican congresswoman Jacqueline Hinojosa praised these security efforts, expressing hope that similar strategies would be applied at World Cup venues. She stated, “Tourists coming to Mexico can feel confident they will enjoy their stay. There are far more good people than bad, and the welcoming spirit of Mexico will shine through.”
