The U.S. Embassy and Consulates in Mexico have issued a travel warning for Americans who will be visiting Mexico for the 2026 FIFA World Cup matches.
The FIFA World Cup 2026 will be hosted by three countries, including the United States, Mexico and Canada, from June 11 to July 12 in 16 cities.
Around 5.5 million visitors are expected to visit Mexico, with matches scheduled for Mexico City, Guadalajara and Monterrey. Security risks, on the other hand, are very different from region to region. According to the US State Department, for example, Americans should “reconsider travel” to Guadalajara, located in the state of Jalisco, due to violence caused by cartels, gangs and other criminal groups.
The guide says: “In Guadalajara, fighting between criminal groups has occurred in tourist areas. Shootouts between these groups have injured or killed innocent bystanders. US citizens and legal permanent residents have been kidnapped.”
In addition, authorities have issued a Level 2 warning for Mexico City and Monterrey, suggesting travelers “exercise increased caution.”
The embassy further warned motorists traveling to Mexico to study the road safety situation along the way. “Conduct thorough research to avoid dangers Americans face while traveling through Mexican roads,” was its advice.
Passengers should watch for items restricted from their luggage, such as firearms, ammunition, electronic cigarettes, vaping materials and illegal drugs, the possession of which could lead to “serious consequences, even unintended.”
Level 4, “Do Not Travel,” advisories remain in effect for several Mexican regions, such as Colima, Guerrero, Michoacán, Sinaloa, Tamaulipas and Zacatecas.
The State Department noted, “The U.S. government has limited ability to assist in many parts of Mexico” and urged travelers to sign up for the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) for security updates.
