The U.S. Embassy and consulates in Mexico have issued a travel warning to Americans traveling to Mexico for 2026 FIFA World Cup matches.
The 2026 FIFA World Cup is 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 in Mexico, with matches scheduled in Mexico City, Guadalajara and Monterrey. Security risks, on the other hand, differ greatly depending on the region. According to the US State Department, for example, Americans should “reconsider travel” to Guadalajara, which is in the state of Jalisco, due to violence caused by cartels, gangs and other criminal groups.
The guidelines state: “In Guadalajara, fighting between criminal groups took place in tourist areas. Shooting between these groups injured or killed innocent bystanders. U.S. citizens and legal permanent residents were kidnapped.”
Additionally, authorities 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 en route. “Conduct thorough research to avoid the dangers Americans face when traveling on Mexican roads,” was his advice.
Passengers should be careful about prohibited items in their luggage, such as firearms, ammunition, e-cigarettes, vaping equipment and illegal substances, possession of which can result in “serious consequences, even unintentional.”
Level 4, “Do Not Travel,” advisories remain in effect in several Mexican regions, such as Colima, Guerrero, Michoacán, Sinaloa, Tamaulipas and Zacatecas.
The State Department noted, “The U.S. government has limited capacity to assist in many areas of Mexico” and encouraged travelers to enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to get security updates.
