World Cup was 'most demanding test' for Mexico City security; Brugada highlights crime reduction in June

Mexico City's security strategy successfully navigated the immense challenge posed by the World Cup, a period marked by a significant increase in tourists and public activity. The city recorded its lowest number of homicides for a June in 15 years, a feat attributed to the effectiveness of its security measures.

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June was not just any month, the World Cup put us to the test.

Clara Brugada, the head of government, emphasized that these results were achieved during a time of heightened demand on public services. She stated that the strategy proved capable of withstanding extreme stress tests, particularly in comparison to other major sporting events like the Olympics in London and Rio de Janeiro, which saw statistically significant crime increases.

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The results of June have greater relevance because they were obtained precisely when the challenge was greatest; achieving these results while millions of people filled the streets demonstrates that our security strategy is capable of overcoming any stress test, however complex and challenging it may be.

Beyond the World Cup success, Brugada also highlighted broader security improvements. High-impact crimes, including violent robbery, assault, and kidnapping, saw an 8% reduction in the first half of 2026 compared to the same period last year. Furthermore, homicides have decreased by 31% since the current administration began, indicating a substantial drop in violent deaths within the city.

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Without a doubt, the World Cup was, although still the World Cup, the most demanding test for our security strategy in recent years, and possibly in recent decades. On few occasions has a city had to face (such a) challenge of that magnitude concentrated in a few days.

The Secretary of Citizen Security, Pablo Vázquez Camacho, added that over 11,000 individuals have been arrested for high-impact crimes during the current administration. These arrests have led to the dismantling of 43 criminal groups, further contributing to the improved security landscape in Mexico City.

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With this data, in less than two years, our government has managed to reduce one out of every three homicides that occurred when this administration began. Few figures better explain the speed with which we are reducing homicides in the city.