Violence in Mexico: Liga MX Fixtures Halted After Cartel Leader’s Death

By Tax assistant

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Violence in Mexico: Liga MX Fixtures Halted After Cartel Leader’s Death

A wave of coordinated violence across Mexico has brought the nation’s professional soccer leagues to a standstill. Following the death of Nemesio “El Mencho” Oseguera Cervantes, the high-profile leader of the Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG), authorities and league officials have moved to postpone multiple matches citing extreme security risks.

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The kingpin was killed during a federal military operation in Tapalpa, Jalisco, on Sunday, February 22, 2026. The event triggered immediate “narco-blockades,” vehicle arsons, and urban combat across several states, making travel for teams and fans impossible.

Major Match Disruptions

Liga MX and the Mexican Football Federation (FMF) issued a joint statement suspending the following high-stakes matches:

CompetitionMatchupOriginal Venue
Liga MX (Clausura)Querétaro vs. FC JuárezEstadio Corregidora
Liga MX FemenilChivas vs. Club AméricaEstadio Akron (Guadalajara)
Expansion MXTepatitlán vs. DoradosEstadio Tepa Gómez
InternationalMexico vs. Iceland (Friendly)Estadio Corregidora (Status: Cancelled)

Impact on the 2026 World Cup Outlook

The scale of this disruption has cast a shadow over Mexico’s preparations for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, scheduled to begin in just four months. With Guadalajara serving as a primary host city and currently the epicenter of the unrest, FIFA officials are expected to meet with local organizers to review safety protocols and stadium security.

Current Regional Status

Beyond the pitch, the region remains in a state of high alert:

  • Travel: International airlines have grounded flights to the Jalisco region.
  • Education: Schools in Guadalajara and surrounding municipalities remain closed.
  • Diplomacy: The U.S. State Department has issued Level 4 “Do Not Travel” advisories for the affected zones.