Multiple football matches in Mexico were abruptly postponed on February 22, 2026, after the killing of a notorious drug cartel leader raised significant security concerns. The incidents resulted in the cancellation of four prominent matches, impacting both top-tier and lower-division teams. Notably, two games in Liga MX, including Queretaro’s clash with Juarez and a women’s league fixture featuring Chivas and America, were affected. Additionally, two matches from the second division were also called off.

Incident Leading to Postponements

The violence erupted following the death of Nemesio Ruben Oseguera Cervantes, better known as “El Mencho,” who led the Jalisco New Generation Cartel. He was killed during a military operation in Tapalpa, located approximately two hours southwest of Guadalajara, a prominent city set to host matches in the FIFA World Cup 2026. El Mencho was critically injured and succumbed while being transported to Mexico City. His death triggered retaliatory actions from cartel members, including the burning of vehicles and roadblocks across nearly a dozen states in Mexico.

Impact on Upcoming Events

In addition to the postponed matches in the domestic leagues, an international friendly game between Mexico and Iceland, scheduled for February 25, was also cancelled by the Mexican Football Federation. Concerns regarding safety and order in light of the cartel violence contributed to these decisions by the authorities.

Characteristics of the Jalisco Cartel

The Jalisco New Generation Cartel is recognized as one of the most formidable criminal organizations in Mexico, with personnel estimated at around 19,000. Its influence spans 21 of the country’s 32 states. In 2017, it was classified as a “Foreign Terrorist Organization” by the United States government, highlighting the severity of its operations and the violent methods employed by its members.

World Cup Preparations Continue

Despite the disruptions caused by these violent events, preparations for the upcoming FIFA World Cup 2026 continue in Guadalajara. The city is set to host four matches, including two featuring the South Korean national team. Other nations participating in events at the Akron Stadium will include Mexico, Spain, Uruguay, and Colombia, emphasizing the significance of the tournament for the region.

Tennis Tournament Unaffected

Meanwhile, the Mexican Open, which is an ATP tennis tournament, is set to proceed as planned at the GNP Arena in Acapulco, Guerrero. Tournament organizers announced on Sunday that the event will continue normally, indicating a separation between the violence affecting football matches and other sporting events in the country.

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