A top official in Jalisco has reassured the South Korea national football team and their supporters that robust safety measures will be in place during the upcoming FIFA World Cup matches scheduled in Mexico this summer.
Mauro Garza, strategic coordinator for economic development and growth in Jalisco, emphasized that authorities are preparing comprehensive security arrangements to protect visiting teams and traveling fans throughout the tournament, which will run from June 11 to July 19.
Mexico is co-hosting the competition alongside the United States and Canada.
His assurances come amid heightened concerns following recent unrest linked to the killing of cartel leader Nemesio Oseguera Cervantes, widely known as “El Mencho,” during a February military operation.
The aftermath saw cartel members blocking roads and setting vehicles and businesses ablaze across several areas, while clashes between security forces and gunmen resulted in dozens of deaths.
Despite the tense situation, Garza insisted that authorities are firmly in control and have already developed detailed safety strategies for the global football showpiece.
“The presidential office will launch special security programs to ensure safety for visitors to our state during the World Cup,” Garza told Yonhap News Agency during his visit to Seoul.
He added that the disturbances were largely localized and had been handled effectively by security forces.
“These plans will cover not just Guadalajara, but other cities like Monterrey and Mexico City,” Garza said.
“I think once people visit, they will see for themselves that their safety will be guaranteed.”
Garza further highlighted that Jalisco has a long history of successfully hosting major international sporting and cultural events, a factor he believes will help ensure the smooth organization of the World Cup.
“In our state, teams handling security, logistics and tourism have been working together for years to prepare for the World Cup,” Garza said.
“We are devising plans to ensure that national team athletes will reach their stadiums safely.”
Meanwhile, South Korea will compete in Group A of the tournament alongside hosts Mexico national football team, South Africa national football team and a European playoff winner yet to be determined.
Under head coach Hong Myung-bo, the Korean side will begin their campaign against the European qualifier on June 11 at Estadio Akron.
They will then face Mexico at the same venue a week later before concluding their group-stage fixtures against South Africa in Monterrey on June 24.
When asked about the much-anticipated clash between Korea and Mexico, Garza responded with a smile and optimism for both teams.
“I hope that the two best teams in the group will qualify for the knockout stage together.
“I think Mexico will win 2-1,” he added pressed to give a scoreline prediction.
As the countdown to kickoff continues, officials in Mexico are keen to reassure teams and fans alike that the World Cup will proceed under tight security and with full preparations in place.
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