FIFA President Gianni Infantino met Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum in Mexico City, affirming the 2026 World Cup's readiness despite recent violence. Sheinbaum stated preparations are 'wonderful' and 'historic,' holding a FIFA pennant with Infantino who declared the tournament 'a success for Mexico.' The co-hosted event, starting June 11 at Azteca Stadium, faces scrutiny following deadly fan incidents and widespread unrest after the capture of Jalisco cartel leader El Mencho. Plan Kukulkán involves 100,000 security personnel across host cities. Infantino's visit followed playoff matches in Guadalajara and Monterrey, with final qualifiers in Mexico on Tuesday.

The meeting aimed to reassure stakeholders as Mexico hosts 13 matches.