FIFA's Infantino has 'total confidence' in Mexico staging World Cup

FIFA president Gianni Infantino says he has “total confidence” in Mexico safely staging World Cup finals and playoff matches despite an outbreak of violence close to one of the host cities.

- By JAMIE GARDNER

A drug cartel has unleashed a campaign of violence in Jalisco state in response to the killing of one of its leaders last week.

Guadalajara, which will host four games at the finals as well as two World Cup playoff matches next month, is the state capital.

However, Infantino has given his complete backing to Mexico to host the matches safely and securely.

He told reporters on a visit to Colombia: “Of course we are monitoring the situation in Mexico right now, but I want to say from the outset that we have total confidence in Mexico, in President Claudia Sheinbaum, in the authorities, and we are convinced that everything will turn out in the best possible way.

“We have some matches in Mexico in a month for the playoffs; the new Azteca Stadium will be inaugurated. Mexico is a great country, a football country.

“As in every country in the world, things happen, which is why we have states, police and authorities who will ensure order and security. From my side, and from FIFA’s side, I have absolute confidence.