Three cities, three different risks: Millions of fans in Mexico face more than just football atmosphere

Millions of fans arriving in Mexico for the World Cup are encountering more than just a football atmosphere; they are stepping into one of the largest security operations in the country's recent history. Mexico, co-hosting the tournament with the United States and Canada, is deploying nearly 100,000 security personnel across its three host cities, Mexico City, Guadalajara, and Monterrey, as well as in team training centers.

The operation, dubbed "Plan Kukulkan" after a Mayan deity, integrates federal, state, and local institutions, with coordination extending to U.S. and Canadian counterparts. However, each Mexican host city presents unique security challenges. Mexico City, while considered the safest of the three, faces risks of pickpocketing, scams, and petty theft, with around 56,000 police officers deployed. The capital is not heavily influenced by major cartels, but local criminal networks involved in piracy, human trafficking, and drug sales are present.

Guadalajara, the capital of Jalisco state, is deemed the most vulnerable. It is dominated by the powerful Jalisco New Generation Cartel and faces a severe social crisis, with thousands of missing persons reported in the state. While authorities believe major cartel violence is unlikely to directly affect foreign fans, petty crime remains a concern. Monterrey, a key economic hub near the U.S. border, grapples with significant organized crime presence, including drug trafficking, fuel theft, money laundering, and inter-gang conflicts. Again, the assessment is that large-scale criminal activity will likely avoid disrupting the tournament itself.

Authorities are issuing strong warnings about fraudulent tickets, travel packages, and tours, advising fans to purchase exclusively through official and reliable channels. Concerns also extend to human trafficking and sexual exploitation, with fears that the influx of tourists could increase demand, particularly endangering vulnerable groups like children and migrants. Despite the risks, experts suggest that criminal groups may not actively seek to cause chaos during the tournament, as they also stand to profit from the tourism economy.