Fans Embrace Soccer Excitement Amid Jalisco’s Violence Concerns

As fans chanted “Mexico! Mexico!” while heading to a recent soccer match in Zapopan, authorities in Jalisco were tightening security measures ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The vibrant atmosphere of the stadium contrasted sharply with the grim realities of life in the state, where the presence of the Jalisco New Generation Cartel looms large over daily life.

In stark juxtaposition to the festivities, National Guard troops were stationed nearby as volunteers, known as the Jalisco Search Warriors, searched for the remains of individuals who had disappeared in the area. This duality of excitement for soccer and the ongoing violence highlights the complex social landscape in Jalisco, a state that will host four World Cup matches in June 2026.

Violence and Disappearances in Jalisco

Jalisco, with a population of roughly 8 million, reports a significant number of disappearances—about 1,000 in 2023 alone, representing a 30% increase compared to the previous year, according to Mexico’s National Search Commission. The state has become notorious for its high crime rate and the activities of the Jalisco New Generation Cartel, which is believed to have around 19,000 members and operates in 21 of Mexico’s 32 states. The cartel has been involved in violent confrontations with law enforcement, including a notable incident where they downed a military helicopter in 2022.

Despite these alarming statistics, soccer fans attending the friendly match against Ecuador on October 14, 2023, appeared largely unconcerned about the cartel’s influence. Many believe that hosting international events like the World Cup provides a temporary reprieve from violence. “If you don’t get yourself into trouble, nothing will happen,” stated Javier Rodríguez, an 18-year-old college student.

The Search for the Missing

Meanwhile, south of Guadalajara, volunteer efforts continued as Indira Navarro and her team excavated a concrete slab in search of missing persons. Navarro has been searching for her brother, who disappeared in Sonora in 2015. The group’s efforts come in light of a tip-off regarding potential remains buried at the site. Earlier this year, they uncovered evidence of past cartel activities, including garments and bone fragments, at a ranch near Guadalajara.

Navarro now lives under the protection of the National Guard after receiving threats related to her search efforts. She expressed frustration at the overshadowing excitement of the World Cup, asserting that the violence and disappearance of citizens cannot simply be glossed over. “They want to wash away everything that has to do with the issue of the disappeared,” she said. “But they won’t be able to do so because we’re going to continue fighting.”

Security analysts like David Saucedo suggest that a tacit agreement may exist between the cartel and government forces. This would allow security operations to be relaxed during major events, provided there are no high-profile incidents. While this arrangement might temporarily stabilize conditions, it does not eliminate the potential for increased criminal activities, especially as the World Cup approaches.

Local officials, including Jalisco Governor Pablo Lemus, speak optimistically about the economic benefits of the World Cup, projecting a potential revenue boost of $1 billion and the creation of up to 7,000 jobs. The state is also enhancing security measures with the installation of 3,000 additional surveillance cameras and other technologies, aiming to leave a lasting legacy beyond the tournament.

As the region prepares for the World Cup, the contrast between the celebratory spirit of soccer fans and the grim realities faced by families searching for the missing continues to draw attention. The upcoming tournament may provide an economic lift, but for many, it also serves as a reminder of the persistent challenges posed by violence and crime in Jalisco.