Although the Azcatitlan manuscript has returned temporarily through a cultural exchange, community members say this is not enough. Mexico and France are holding talks on the possible repatriation of the Codex Borbonicus, which is held by the French National Assembly. Indigenous representatives say bringing the manuscripts home would strengthen cultural identity and help younger generations reconnect with their heritage, ahead of the New Fire ceremony scheduled for 2027.

“Investigations are being carried out to see if the videos are real or not,” she said, adding that authorities were also looking into how individuals potentially linked to criminal organisations could have joined the conflict .

Sheinbaum suggested that recruitment could have taken place through private military companies or other organisations involved in the war, but stressed that the authenticity of the footage had yet to be established.

She also confirmed that Mexico had not contacted the Ukrainian government over the allegations, although diplomatic communication could be initiated if necessary.

The investigation follows recent unverified reports alleging that Mexican and Colombian cartel members have been recruited to receive private training in drone operations linked to the conflict in Ukraine .

Speaking during her morning press conference on Monday, Sheinbaum was also asked about the risk of possible US interference in Mexico's 2030 presidential election .

The question came a day after the first round of Brazil's presidential election on October 4, where Flavio Bolsonaro received more valid votes than President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva.

On the same day, Brazil's Federal Police said it had opened a preliminary investigation into possible US interference in the election following a request from the Office of the Attorney General (AGU).

Sheinbaum said her government has repeatedly raised concerns about possible interference by sections of the international right.

"Well, the international right, yes. If it wants to intervene, we have been denouncing it constantly," she said.

Sheinbaum said she was not necessarily referring to US President Donald Trump . However, she claimed there were very right-wing groups within his government that were hostile towards Mexico and other countries and wanted "a change of government in Mexico".

Her remarks come as her government continues to stress that security cooperation between Mexico and the US must respect Mexican sovereignty and established institutional procedures.

Sheinbaum also questioned the laying of the foundation stone for an International Police Training Academy in the state of Queretaro.

US Ambassador to Mexico Ronald Johnson attended the ceremony, but according to Sheinbaum, the Foreign Ministry, Ministry of Defence and federal Security Cabinet were not invited.

She said the governor and the US ambassador would have to explain how the project was moved forward.

"Neither the ambassador requested any permission from the Foreign Ministry, nor the governor. And I repeat: there cannot be training in Mexico by a the US agency if it does not go through the Foreign Ministry. That is the law ," Sheinbaum said.

The Queretaro project is expected to provide police training focused on detecting and intercepting drugs, weapons, illicit money and other forms of contraband.

Information released about the initiative puts the investment at more than 30 million pesos, around $1.6 million.

“Today we are holding a march to commemorate the 2nd October 1968 massacre,” protester Tamara Darmi said, adding that the demonstration was also about defending the right to education .

Some protesters also raised allegations about links between Mexican officials and US intelligence during the administration of then-president Gustavo Díaz Ordaz. Protester Jesús Sebastian alleged that Díaz Ordaz and his interior secretary, Luis Echeverría, had ties to the CIA, while historian Aleida criticised what she described as longstanding US involvement in Latin America .

Authorities said 18 people were treated for minor injuries, while a 17-year-old was taken to hospital after an explosive device he was carrying detonated and injured his hand.

The annual march commemorates the events of October 2, 1968, when security forces violently repressed a student gathering at the Plaza de las Tres Culturas, days before the opening of the Mexico City Olympic Games.

“Where is the work being done to stop all the cartels or drug distributors in the US? What about money laundering in the US?” Sheinbaum asked, adding that Mexico was taking action against officials suspected of criminal links.

She also questioned what Washington was doing to address US drug consumption and the flow of weapons into Mexico, arguing that drug trafficking could not be tackled solely in countries where narcotics are produced or transported.

“What is being done about drug use in the US?” she asked, describing consumption as a public health issue requiring greater attention to young people.

Her comments came after Trump sent a memorandum to the US Congress calling on Mexico to act against public officials Washington says have links to criminal organisations.

Sheinbaum also rejected foreign intervention in Mexico, while stressing that the country remained open to cooperation with the US.

The demonstration briefly halted the civic-military parade outside the Morelos Government Palace. Scuffles broke out as security personnel attempted to contain the protesters, while some spectators urged officers to allow the demonstration to continue.

Morelos Attorney General Fernando Blumenkron said a judge had issued an arrest warrant for Francisco Javier "N", whom prosecutors identify as the suspected perpetrator of Tacoronte's killing.

"This person answers to the name Francisco Javier N and is attributed responsibility for Claudia's femicide," Blumenkron said.

Authorities have issued a wanted notice and expanded the search beyond Morelos to other Mexican states. Prosecutors stressed that the suspect is presumed innocent until his responsibility is determined by a court.

Sheinbaum led the Civic- Military Parade in Mexico City's Zocalo on Wednesday, with military contingents marching through the capital as parachutists descended onto the esplanade and aircraft flew overhead.

Music from the Mexican Army War Band accompanied the parade.

Sheinbaum Puts Sovereignty at Centre

Before the procession began, Sheinbaum presided over protocol events in the Zocalo, including the raising of the National Flag and the presidential review of the Armed Forces.

She was accompanied by members of her cabinet and representatives of the branches of government.

During her address, Sheinbaum linked the country's independence celebrations with the defence of Mexico's sovereignty and autonomy.

"16 September, Independence Day, is Mexico's living memory. It always means holding our heads high and proclaiming to the four winds that Mexico will never be anyone's colony or protectorate. Mexico does not bow down, does not kneel and Mexico is never for sale," the president said. "Long live independence! Long live sovereignty! For ever. Long live Mexico!"

She also described Mexico's Independence as the result of people challenging injustice.

"Mexicans. Mexico was born out of the defiance of a people who refused to accept injustice as their fate," she added.

‘Defend the Homeland’

Sheinbaum called on generations of Mexicans to protect the legacy of those who fought for the country's independence.

"It is a responsibility of all generations of Mexicans to honour what cost lives, to defend the homeland, to safeguard sovereignty and to make social justice a reality, for which so many have given their lives. Because although some would prefer otherwise, Mexico cannot be understood without its noble, courageous and hard-working people. Nor can it be understood without its constant struggle for sovereignty and independence."

The parade concluded with more than 15,000 members of the Armed Forces taking part, alongside 536 land vehicles and 107 aircraft.

Shortly after 23:00 local time, Sheinbaum delivered the traditional proclamations honouring figures from Mexico's fight for independence. This year's ceremony also recognised Indigenous and Afro-Mexican peoples and migrants, while celebrating freedom, equality, justice and democracy .

Sheinbaum concluded by hailing a free, independent and sovereign Mexico before ringing the historic bell and waving the national flag over the crowd.

The ceremony followed hours of musical and cultural performances in the Zocalo, with Intocable among the main acts. In 2025, Sheinbaum became the first woman in Mexican history to lead the traditional Grito from the National Palace.

The Grito commemorates Miguel Hidalgo y Costilla's call for resistance against Spanish rule on September 16, 1810. Mexico's independence struggle ended in 1821.

"Co-operation does not mean subordination. Friendship does not mean renouncing our principles," Sheinbaum said. "I will firmly defend our sovereignty, our dignity and our independence."

On energy, Sheinbaum said the debt of state-owned oil company Pemex had been reduced by $20 billion, while production stood at 1.77 million barrels of oil and nearly five billion cubic feet of natural gas per day. She also highlighted a National Gas Pipeline Plan involving 141 billion pesos in projected investment through 2030.

Turning to security , Sheinbaum said intentional homicides had fallen by 51 per cent since she took office, equivalent to 44 fewer killings per day. She added that the daily average of high-impact crimes in 2026 had dropped by 54 per cent compared with 2018.

Authorities suspect members of the Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG) may have been behind the attack.

According to the State Prosecutor's Office, the explosion happened at around 20:00 as activities for the Regional Prickly Pear and Grape Fair were taking place in the town centre.

The blast sparked a fire and damaged 17 properties, including homes, commercial premises and the police command. Several vehicles were also damaged, including two patrol cars.

State and federal security units were deployed to the area alongside ambulances following the explosion.

"The state government came specifically to assess the material damage around the blast wave of the explosion and to take up the issue of all the damage and meet needs," Ojocaliente Mayor Juan Manuel Zambrano Jimenez said after visiting the scene.

Residents have since renewed calls for the police command to be relocated away from the residential area, saying its location puts nearby homes at risk.

"It is time to make a nationwide appeal to the federal authorities, to President Claudia Sheinbaum, for her to come here and see the damage along with all our neighbours. We no longer want the Police Command to remain here, because it poses a risk to everyone," affected resident Marcos said.

Another resident, Teresa Medellin, said the attack reflected the insecurity people in the area face.

"What country are we living in? And the lady [Claudia Sheinbaum, President of Mexico] says nothing is happening because nothing happens to her. We are living under terrorism. You cannot live like this," she said through tears.

The State Prosecutor's Office is investigating a possible CJNG connection. Zacatecas Attorney General Cristian Paul Camacho told local media that one vehicle used in the attack had a serial number matching a vehicle reported stolen with violence in Jalisco in April.

Authorities believe that evidence, combined with the criminal group's presence in the region, strengthens the line of inquiry.

Camacho also linked the investigation to Saturday's arrest of "William N", 18, following an assault against municipal police in Villa Garcia, near the border between Zacatecas and Aguascalientes.

The prosecutor did not rule out the possibility that the attack on the Ojocaliente police command was carried out in response to the arrest.

"To clarify, the Secretariat of National Defence rescue brigade was not approved by the Colombian Government ," Sheinbaum said.

"It is not a conflict ; there is no problem," she added, explaining that Colombia had requested food and medicines but required certification for rescue teams.

Mexico is continuing to send humanitarian aid aboard Hercules aircraft, including food and medical supplies requested by Colombian authorities. Sheinbaum said the military rescue brigade remained ready to deploy if authorised, noting that its members had participated in rescue operations in 98 countries.

According to the Mexican government, the brigade comprises 255 personnel from the Army, Air Force and National Guard, along with 20 K-9 teams.

Colombia has limited the entry of international rescue teams, although Mexico's Topos Azteca and two US-provided teams have been authorised. The earthquake has killed at least 265 people, injured 3,494 and left 496 missing, according to the latest figures. More than 25,000 families have been affected.

"We can review what happens in other Latin American countries and what happens in our country. And this is a form of interference in Mexican politics . That is my opinion, because I see no other reason," she said.

Sheinbaum said there was no ongoing investigation against Lopez Beltran, but added that authorities would act if evidence of a crime emerged.

"We are not going to cover up anyone if they committed a crime," she said.

"But we are not going to open an investigation just because the US takes away someone's visa. So, what is the motive? The motive would be that we had a request, or an investigation stating that someone, some politician from any political party, was involved in some crime. Then the investigation continues and proceeds," she added.

Lopez Beltran disclosed the visa revocation in a letter addressed to US President Donald Trump . He claimed the decision was ordered by Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Deputy Secretary Christopher Landau.

He described the move as "political and propagandistic in nature" and with a "Hitlerian style", arguing that US officials had no evidence of "any immoral or criminal act."

Lopez Beltran also called the decision a "perverse outrage" and accused Landau and Rubio of acting like "gang leaders" who were "spying on, harassing, interfering with and harming" countries, governments and politicians they considered "communists, threats or narco-terrorists."

In May 2026, Lopez Beltran resigned as Organisation Secretary of Mexico's ruling Morena party and from his role on the National Elections Commission. He also announced plans to seek a federal deputy seat.

She said Mexico was prepared to provide assistance following the damage caused by the earthquake.

"And, of course, all the support that the people of Colombia may require, if necessary, we will be there," she said.

Mexico's Ministry of Foreign Affairs contacted Colombia's Foreign Ministry to reiterate its willingness to provide support. No Mexican nationals had been reported among those affected.

According to the Colombian Geological Service (SGC), the earthquake had its epicentre in San José del Palmar, Chocó, at a depth of approximately 103 kilometres. It was the strongest earthquake recorded in Colombia in the past decade.

More than 70 deaths have been reported nationwide. Pereira, Manizales and Cali were among the cities affected, while tremors were also felt in Venezuela , Ecuador and Panama.

In a security alert issued on Wednesday, the US Embassy in Mexico announced the suspension but did not disclose the nature of the threat. Michoacán Governor Alfredo Ramírez Bedolla later said the inspections had been paused to protect personnel after recent arrests linked to extortion activities in the state.

The inspections, conducted by the US Department of Agriculture, are required before Mexican avocados can be exported to the United States. USDA personnel oversee plantations and packing facilities to ensure fruit complies with US phytosanitary standards. Similar security incidents have forced temporary suspensions in the past.

Michoacán, the source of most Mexican avocado exports to the United States, has long been a hotspot for organised crime, with several cartels operating in the region. Beyond drug trafficking , criminal groups have built lucrative extortion rackets targeting the avocado industry, often referred to locally as "green gold".

“There was a 6.8 earthquake. It is still not known exactly, but it is around that,” he said before official measurements were released.

“There is no serious impact on maritime matters, only some beaches are expected to rise by up to half a meter, the water level due to the tsunami effect from the earthquake,” Ángeles added.

Mexico's National Seismological Service later reported that the earthquake measured magnitude 7.4 and was centred about 135 kilometres southwest of Ciudad Hidalgo, Chiapas.

Several strong aftershocks followed, including earthquakes measuring magnitudes 6.5 and 6.3.

President Claudia Sheinbaum said she had spoken with authorities in Chiapas and ordered emergency response protocols to be activated.

She added that no damage had been reported at the time of her remarks.

Mexico lies along the Pacific Ring of Fire, one of the world's most seismically active regions, where earthquakes and volcanic activity are frequent due to the movement of tectonic plates.

"It seems to me that the DEA has a lot of work in the United States. Normally the DEA devotes most of its work outside the United States, but within the United States it has a lot of work and should be dedicated to work mainly within its own country," she said.

Sheinbaum cited the television series Breaking Bad, arguing that it reflects a real problem in the United States, which she described as the world's largest drug market.

"The largest drug market in the world is in the United States. Who sells it? How do they sell it, how do they distribute it, how do they launder the money? That is something the DEA should be investigating," she said.

She also referenced former senior DEA official Nicholas Palmeri, who was removed over improper contacts with lawyers representing drug traffickers, saying the agency should focus on issues within its own organisation rather than making political statements.

Despite rejecting the allegations, Sheinbaum said Mexico remained committed to cooperating with the DEA in combating cross-border drug trafficking .

President Claudia Sheinbaum announced on Monday that her government will file formal complaints with the US Department of Justice and state prosecutors to seek investigations into the deaths of 17 Mexican nationals in detention centres and during Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) operations.

The move follows the death of Mexican national Lorenzo Salgado Araujo, who was shot during an ICE operation in Houston, Texas, on July 7, 2026.

"Today the Ministry of Foreign Affairs will present the complaints before the United States Department of Justice and the state prosecutors' offices in the United States over the death of 17 fellow nationals, among them the latest one who was practically killed," Sheinbaum said during her morning press conference at the National Palace.

She said the government decided to pursue legal action after repeated diplomatic exchanges with US authorities failed to produce results.

"We cannot simply continue with diplomatic letters that have not produced results. That is why we are now calling on the Department of Justice to investigate whoever is responsible," she stressed.

According to Sheinbaum, the complaints seek to establish how the Mexican nationals died while in immigration detention and during ICE operations.

"An investigation that says why Mexicans died in detention centres, what the cause is, and at the same time, three Mexicans who have already died in ICE operations," she said.

The Mexican president insisted the legal action is part of the government's responsibility to protect its citizens abroad and is not intended to damage relations with Washington.

"I believe it is the obligation of any government to establish a defence of its fellow nationals abroad. It does not signal a situation in which we want to affect the relationship between Mexico and the United States," Sheinbaum said.

She added that cooperation with the United States on trade and security would continue, while Mexico would keep demanding investigations whenever it believed the rights of its citizens had been violated. She also called for national unity in defending Mexicans living both at home and abroad.

"Yes, we do intend to restore the relationship with Peru. We did not break off that relationship; they did, they decided to. It is good that the president-elect today wishes... to restore the relationship," Sheinbaum said.

She added that she had instructed Mexico's foreign minister to begin discussions with Peru's incoming administration.

"Given her statements, I asked the foreign minister to establish communication with the new team that is going to govern in order to look at the specifics of restoring that relationship," she said.

Peru cut diplomatic relations with Mexico in November 2025 after the Mexican government granted political asylum to former Peruvian prime minister Betssy Chavez.

Chavez and former president Pedro Castillo were later sentenced to 11 years and five months in prison over Castillo's failed attempt to dissolve Congress and govern by decree in December 2022. Castillo is serving his sentence at the Barbadillo prison complex inside a police base in Lima.

Speaking during her morning press conference in Mexico City on Wednesday, Sheinbaum said Mexico would wait before taking any steps to restore ties, insisting Peru was responsible for severing relations.

"I have not had any communication [with Keiko Fujimori]. Well, we are going to wait. Remember that they broke relations with us. Unlike the case of Ecuador, [where] we broke relations because they invaded our embassy," she said.

Her remarks came after Fujimori, who was declared president-elect on Friday, said last month that she wanted to rebuild relations with Mexico, arguing that the two countries shared longstanding ties that should outweigh political differences.

Sheinbaum said Peru's decision followed Mexico's position on former Peruvian president Pedro Castillo, who was removed from office and detained after attempting to dissolve Congress in December 2022.

The Mexican president defended her government's stance, maintaining that Castillo remains "illegally imprisoned."

"It is not that there was a political affinity. No. [Our position] has evidence. The number of votes needed for that was not reached in Peru's Congress. It is as simple as that. That is our position. But because of that position we took, which is also declarative and at no time represented anything more, they decided to break relations with us," she asserted.

Sheinbaum also confirmed that one person remains at Mexico's embassy in Lima under Brazil 's protection after Brazil assumed responsibility for Mexico's diplomatic representation following the breakdown in relations.

Peru cut diplomatic ties with Mexico in November 2025 after the Mexican government granted political asylum to former Peruvian Prime Minister Betssy Chávez, who is facing prosecution over her alleged role in the attempted coup attributed to Castillo.

Speaking publicly, Sheinbaum referred to new reports linking the aircraft used in the operation to an FBI exhibit, saying they raised fresh questions about the role of US authorities.

"The response from Ambassador Ken Salazar, publicly and directly, was that there had been no participation by any agency of the United States . However, in recent days (...) we learned (...) that the plane in which these two members of organised crime arrived is on display at a fair where the FBI claims responsibility for this operation," she said.

She then questioned the accuracy of Salazar's previous statements.

"So, from that point, the first question is: Who is lying? Who lied? Did Ambassador Ken Salazar lie?" she added.

According to Sheinbaum, any involvement by a US agency in the operation would raise concerns under Mexico's constitution and international agreements.

The president also questioned the reception given in the United States to relatives of Ovidio Guzman, another son of Joaquin "El Chapo" Guzman, in connection with the Zambada case.

"Who makes agreements with organised crime ? Because we do not," she said.

She added that diplomatic immunity would not prevent Mexico from defending its sovereignty.

"We cannot be lied to," she stressed.

Zambada was taken into custody on July 25, 2024, after arriving at an airport near El Paso, Texas , with Joaquin Guzman Lopez.

According to Zambada's legal team, and an account previously acknowledged by Guzman Lopez before US authorities, Guzman Lopez forced him onto the flight before both men were detained after landing in the United States.

The tradition stretches back to Mexico's first time hosting the tournament in 1970. This year, after briefly being halted at another church over concerns it was inappropriate, the custom was revived by the cathedral, where the figure remained on display throughout the competition.

The cathedral's location, just steps from FIFA's Fan Fest in the Zócalo, turned the statue into an unlikely pilgrimage site. Supporters from Mexico and beyond stopped to pray, pose for photographs or quietly ask for a little divine intervention before kick-off.

It made little difference on the pitch.

England ended Mexico's dream with a dramatic 3-2 victory at the Estadio Azteca, despite playing much of the second half with ten men. Jude Bellingham scored twice before Harry Kane's penalty helped send England into the quarter-finals, silencing a stadium that had hoped faith might provide one final advantage.

The Baby Jesus will remain dressed in Mexico's colours until the end of the tournament, cathedral officials say, regardless of the result.

Perhaps that is the more enduring story. Football can inspire prayer, hope and ritual. But even with what may have been the holiest supporter at the World Cup, there are some miracles that never arrive.

Hundreds of thousands of supporters flooded the city centre on Tuesday following Mexico's Round of 32 win, with crowds stretching across Paseo de la Reforma and around the Angel of Independence. As more fans poured into the area, people became trapped in the crush while others pleaded for the pushing to stop.

One witness, who was caught in the crowd and emerged covered in dirt with one shoe missing, described the panic.

"No matter how much you tell them not to push, not to shove, they still move side to side. People who are trying to stand up get pushed and fall on top of others. What was experienced here was truly a tragedy," the witness said.

"The news won't say it. The news won't report any of this, obviously, much less will it appear on social media," he continued.

He also warned others to be cautious during future celebrations.

"There are things that make you trip: planters, trees that make you trip, and you fall there. And even if you try not to step on them, people push you. [...] It's your decision if you want to come. Just take many precautions," the witness added.

Mexico City Health Secretary Nadine Gasman Zylbermann confirmed that four people lost their lives during the celebrations.

"The four regrettable cases occurred in the vicinity of Paseo de la Reforma. Three, as has already been reported here, were due to asphyxia," she said.

The three victims were a 44-year-old man and two women aged 19 and 48. Gasman said paramedics performed advanced resuscitation at the scene before taking them to hospital, where they later died.

She added that the fourth victim, a man believed to be about 30 years old whose identity had not been confirmed, was treated for epileptic status, convulsive seizures and gastrointestinal bleeding before suffering cardiorespiratory arrest in hospital. He did not respond to resuscitation efforts.

Mexico City Head of Government Clara Brugada said the Attorney General's Office had opened investigations into each of the deaths.

"The Attorney General's Office has already opened investigation files in all cases regarding the events that led to the regrettable deaths of people. I urge that the investigation reach its ultimate conclusions and determine any responsibility involved," Brugada said.

City officials expressed condolences to the victims' families and said future mass celebrations must place greater emphasis on public safety.

Authorities said security had been reinforced before the celebrations, alcohol restrictions had been introduced in parts of the city and dozens of giant public screens had been installed to spread supporters across multiple locations. Despite those measures, officials estimated that between 800,000 and one million people gathered around the Angel of Independence.

Officials said crowd-control plans would be reviewed before Mexico's Round of 16 match against England on 5 July, when further large celebrations are expected.

Edgar Martinez, a canine handler with the Mexican Red Cross, said rescue teams have been working in difficult conditions but remain committed to the mission.

"We are here in Venezuela, in La Guaira, working on search and location efforts for live people in quite difficult scenarios, with quite high temperatures, but with a great willingness to help," he said.

Martinez explained that the dogs are trained to identify survivors by detecting carbon dioxide released through human breathing.

"The dogs are trained to locate people through breathing, specifically through the carbon dioxide that we emit when we exhale; that indicates that a person is alive," he said.

He added that preparing the dogs for rescue operations depends heavily on volunteers who simulate being trapped during training exercises.

"People are literally used, and we are very grateful in advance to everyone who helps us in Mexico by hiding from the dogs... when I send the dog to search, there has to be a person pretending to be buried so that the dog can be locating them," Martinez said.

Mexico has reportedly deployed 22 canine teams to Venezuela to assist with search-and-rescue operations. Eighteen of the teams are from the Emergency Response Battalion of the Secretariat of Defence, while the remaining four belong to the Mexican Red Cross, including Orly, Balam and Kenai.

The three internationally certified dogs have previously taken part in major disaster response missions, including search efforts following the February 2023 earthquakes in Turkey.

The 7.2 and 7.5 magnitude earthquakes that struck Venezuela on June 24 have killed 1,943 people and injured 10,571 others, according to updated figures released by Venezuelan authorities on Tuesday.

Mexico remains the world's largest Spanish-speaking country by native speakers, with about 138.1 million people speaking Spanish as their first language, according to World Population Review population estimates.

The ranking highlights the global reach of Spanish, one of the world's most widely spoken languages. More than 500 million people speak Spanish as a native language, making it the second-most spoken native language globally after Mandarin Chinese, according to the Instituto Cervantes.

The United States ranks second with approximately 65.5 million Spanish speakers. Although English is the country's dominant language, decades of immigration from Latin America, particularly Mexico, Puerto Rico, Cuba and Central America, have made the U.S. home to one of the world's largest Spanish-speaking populations. Around 69.5% of Spanish speakers in the U.S. are native speakers, according to World Population Review.

Latin America accounts for eight of the world's ten largest Spanish-speaking populations.

After Mexico and the United States, Colombia ranks third with 53.1 million native Spanish speakers, followed by Spain with 48.9 million and Argentina with 47.5 million.

The remaining countries in the top ten are Peru (30.6 million), Venezuela (29.4 million), Chile (20.2 million), Ecuador (17.5 million) and Guatemala (17 million).

Spanish is the official language in 20 sovereign states across Europe and the Americas and is also one of the six official languages of the United Nations .

The United States is unique among the top-ranked countries because it has no federal official language, yet it hosts the world's second-largest Spanish-speaking population.

According to the U.S. Census Bureau , the country's Hispanic population has grown steadily over recent decades, driven by both immigration and natural population growth. Spanish is the most widely spoken language after English and is used extensively in education, media, business and public services.

Unlike most Latin American countries, however, a smaller share of the U.S. population speaks Spanish as a native language compared with countries where Spanish is the national language.

The Instituto Cervantes estimates that nearly 600 million people worldwide use Spanish, including native speakers, second-language speakers and learners.

Spanish is the official language of international organisations, including the United Nations, the European Union, the Organisation of American States and the Community of Latin American and Caribbean States (CELAC). It is also one of the most studied foreign languages globally.

Population growth across Latin America, together with the continued expansion of Hispanic communities in the United States, is expected to sustain Spanish as one of the world's most influential global languages in the coming decades.

Photographs circulating on social media showed several of the men with fake moustaches and cat whiskers drawn on their faces. The word ratero — Spanish for "thief" — had also been written on them, while pink warning signs detailing their alleged offences were hung above their heads. Bicycles they were accused of stealing were left nearby.

The unidentified vigilante earned the nickname "Batman of Lagos de Moreno" after Mexican journalist Luis Cárdenas reported that the individual had apparently grown frustrated with the pace of local policing and taken justice into their own hands.

Authorities, however, have made clear that the actions are being treated as crimes.

Jalisco Security Secretary Juan Pablo Hernández confirmed police had recorded five such cases and were searching for the suspect. Prosecutor Salvador González de los Santos said investigators were examining the alleged thefts involving the restrained men, but stressed that "at this moment they are victims" because they had been unlawfully assaulted and detained.

No arrests have been made, and the identity of the so-called "Batman" remains unknown. Image Credit: DepositPhotos.com

The agreement, expected to be signed in Geneva, would see Iran commit to renouncing the development or acquisition of nuclear weapons in exchange for support to reopen the Strait of Hormuz, a critical global oil route. The deal follows nearly four months of conflict involving the US and Israel, which has resulted in over 7,000 deaths, according to official figures, and has raised concerns over regional stability and energy markets .

Interpreter Omar Martinez explained that the project was designed to ensure that fans with disabilities could fully participate in the excitement of the tournament.

“What we are doing today is interpretation for deaf people and for a deaf-blind person, in which we use tactile sign language, where the deaf person touches the hands and can understand the interpretation and what is happening in the match,” Martinez said.

Among those attending was Jose de Jesus Loera, who was born deaf or hard of hearing and later lost his sight completely. He described the experience as his first World Cup match.

“I feel more emotions, with the vibration, with the speakers and the screen. I feel that it is much more exciting,” he said.

Another fan, Manuel Martinez Garcia, said the initiative allowed people with disabilities to enjoy the event without communication barriers.

“It gives me more emotions to see that there are many people and to be with all the people so that we are not excluded,” he said. “It's very exciting to feel it, and I hope Mexico wins.”

FutFest 2026 was created to bring the World Cup closer to local communities through free public screenings, cultural activities and inclusion programmes aimed at making the tournament accessible to a wider audience.

The FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022 is the most-watched World Cup in history, with an estimated 5 billion people engaging with the tournament across television, streaming platforms, social media and digital channels, according to FIFA's Global Engagement and Audience Report .

The record-breaking audience places Qatar 2022 ahead of previous editions in Russia, Brazil and South Africa, underscoring football's position as the world's most popular sport and highlighting the growing role of digital media in global sports consumption.

According to FIFA, approximately 5 billion people interacted with World Cup content during the tournament, while the final between Argentina and France achieved a global audience of around 1.42 billion viewers, making it the most-watched FIFA World Cup final on record.

The tournament's reach far exceeded previous editions:

FIFA reported that fans followed the competition through a mix of traditional broadcasting, streaming services, mobile platforms and social media channels, reflecting a major shift in how global audiences consume live sport.

Much of the tournament's appeal centred on Lionel Messi's quest for a first World Cup title. Argentina's dramatic victory over France in one of the most celebrated finals in football history generated unprecedented interest worldwide.

The match, decided on penalties after a thrilling 3-3 draw, became the tournament's defining moment and helped drive record viewership figures across multiple continents.

FIFA's report found that social media engagement surged during Qatar 2022, with 93.6 million posts, a cumulative reach of 262 billion, and nearly 6 billion social media engagements recorded during the competition.

The governing body has since expanded its digital strategy ahead of the 2026 World Cup, partnering with streaming platforms, creators and social media companies to attract younger audiences. FIFA believes future tournaments could surpass Qatar's already historic engagement levels.

Attention is now shifting to the 2026 FIFA World Cup, which will be jointly hosted by the United States, Canada and Mexico. The tournament will feature a record 48 teams and 104 matches, making it the largest World Cup ever staged.

This ranking was developed using data from HypeAuditor , an AI-powered platform that measures influencer performance through its Audience Quality Score (AQS) . By analysing engagement, audience authenticity, and growth patterns, AQS helps identify creators who stand out not just for their reach, but for their real connection with audiences.

If you haven’t read parts  one  and two  of this series yet, be sure to catch up.

Now, let’s move on to the final round, positions 25 to 1.

25. Cleber Rosa (Brazil)

Blending rural storytelling with stand-up, Cleber Rosa is a Brazilian comedian best known for his character “Chico da Tiana”, which draws on countryside culture and traditions. He first gained popularity through viral internet videos before taking his work to theatres across Brazil. His humour often celebrates regional identity, using simple language and familiar situations to connect with audiences. In recent years, he has successfully transitioned from online fame to large-scale live performances, attracting diverse crowds nationwide.

Check out his Instagram account.

24. Igor Guimarães (Brazil)

Recognised for his surreal and unconventional humour, Igor Guimarães is a Brazilian comedian who has gained prominence through stand-up, television, and podcast appearances. He first reached wider audiences with shows like Pânico na Band and later became known for his distinctive presence on programmes such as The Noite com Danilo Gentili.

Check out his Instagram account.

23. César EAA (Mexico)

Building his career through social media, César EAA is a Mexican comedian and content creator known for developing viral characters and humorous commentary online. His rise began with short-form videos, where his expressive style and recurring personas quickly gained traction among audiences. He has expanded his presence beyond digital platforms, appearing in podcasts and aiming to transition into television.

Check out his Instagram account.

22. Álvaro Salas (Chile)

A veteran of Chilean comedy, Álvaro Salas first rose to prominence in the 1970s as part of the duo Pujillay, before establishing a long-standing solo career. He became a regular figure at major events such as the Viña del Mar International Song Festival, where his clean, joke-driven style earned widespread popularity. Over decades, he has maintained a presence on television, radio, and live stages, becoming one of Chile’s most enduring entertainers.

Check out his Instagram account.

21. Thalyta Almeida (Brazil)

Coming from Brazil’s emerging stand-up scene, Thalyta Almeida has appeared in live comedy shows such as Santo Riso , performing alongside other comedians in dedicated comedy venues. Her work is rooted primarily in stage performance rather than large-scale media exposure, reflecting a career built through the independent circuit. While still developing her public profile, she represents a new wave of performers gaining experience through collaborative shows and local audiences.

Check out her Instagram account.

20. André Flores Venancio (Brazil)

Emerging from Brazil’s digital comedy scene, André Flores Venancio first gained attention through TikTok, where his short sketches and parody videos attracted millions of likes. His content often features costume-based characters and fast-paced storytelling, appealing especially to younger audiences online. Building on this popularity, he has taken his humour beyond social media, performing stand-up shows in major Brazilian cities as part of touring productions.

Check out his Instagram account.

19. Juan Diego (Brazil)

Operating under the persona “Dom Sincero”, Juan Diego is a Brazilian digital comedian who has gained traction through sharp, reaction-based humour on social media. His content often centres on analysing viral trends and controversial opinions, using sarcasm and direct commentary to challenge them. His rise reflects a growing wave of Latin American creators who blend comedy with commentary on current cultural debates.

Check out his Instagram account.

18. Luis Aravena Carrillo (Chile)

Originally trained as a nurse, Luis Aravena Carrillo is a Chilean comedian who transitioned into stand-up after years working in the healthcare system. His routines draw heavily on his experiences in hospitals, where he observed everyday situations that later became comedic material. He began performing while still working in medicine, gradually building a following through live shows and social media content. Today, he performs across Chile with shows such as En Práctica , reflecting his journey from healthcare professional to full-time comedian.

Check out his Instagram account.

17. Oscar Tito (Peru)

Better known to audiences simply as Tito, Oscar has become a familiar face in Peruvian comedy through his work in television and live performance. He gained recognition as part of the popular comedy programme El Wasap de JB , where his character work and timing helped him stand out within an ensemble cast. Over the years, he has combined sketch comedy with stage appearances, building a steady presence in Peru’s entertainment industry.

Check out his Instagram account.

16. Mariano Núñez (Argentina)

Known online as "Rulombo", this Argentine comedian has built a following through internet-based humour that blends absurdity, satire, and digital culture. Rather than emerging from traditional stand-up, his work is primarily rooted in social media, where he shares sketches and commentary shaped by meme aesthetics and contemporary trends. His style often plays with randomness and irony, appealing strongly to younger audiences.

Check out his Instagram account.

15. Agustina Aguilar (Argentina)

Starting out in Buenos Aires in 2011, Agustina Aguilar has developed a solid career within the Argentine stand-up scene over more than a decade. She trained with well-known comedians and gained early exposure at the Ciudad Emergente festival, which helped launch her trajectory. Her work has taken her beyond Argentina, performing in Spain, Chile, and Uruguay, while her solo shows such as Metanoia explore personal experiences through irony and dark humour.

Check out her Instagram account.

14. Emilio González Moreira (Argentina)

Unlike many traditional comedians, Emilio González Moreira has carved out a niche by combining stand-up with video game culture and history. Based in Argentina, he is recognised as a key figure in the Buenos Aires comedy circuit, performing regularly in theatres and festivals such as Ciudad Emergente. His solo show Reset blends humour, storytelling, and gaming references, showcasing his ability to create characters using voices and sound effects.

Check out his Instagram account.

13. Dalia Castella (Mexico)

Dalia Castella is a Mexico-based comedian, musician, and content creator known for her sharp, provocative style and dark humour. Originally from Spain, she has developed her career within Mexico’s contemporary stand-up scene, performing live shows such as A mí la comedia me da igual , which has toured multiple cities. Her work often blends sarcasm with social commentary, addressing topics like identity and prejudice through an intentionally confrontational tone.

Check out her Instagram account.

12. Relson Cardoso (Brazil)

Originally from Brazil, Relson Cardoso has built his reputation through stand-up performances that mix high-energy delivery with observational humour. He is recognised for engaging directly with audiences during his routines, often improvising based on real-time reactions. His career has developed through appearances in comedy clubs and collaborative shows within the Brazilian circuit.

Check out his Instagram account.

11. Natan Barros (Brazil)

Natan Barros is a Brazilian comedian associated with the country’s expanding stand-up comedy movement. He has built his career through live performances, appearing in comedy clubs and collaborative shows alongside other emerging acts. His humour tends to draw from personal anecdotes and contemporary social themes, creating a connection with younger audiences. In addition to the stage, he has developed an online presence that supports his growing visibility within Brazil’s comedy scene.

Check out his Instagram account.

10. Michael Steve (Ecuador)

Michael Steve, also known as “Asimon”, is an Ecuadorian comedian and digital content creator who has built a strong presence through social media platforms, particularly Instagram and TikTok. His content focuses on humorous sketches, memes, and relatable situations, often delivered with an expressive and energetic style.

Check out his Instagram account.

9. Fran Mendes (Brazil)

Fran Mendes is a Brazilian comedian known for his sharp, relatable humour and strong presence on social media. His content blends everyday observations with expressive storytelling, allowing him to connect easily with audiences. His most famous character is “Tia Fran,” a teacher who reflects the realities of education through humour. Over time, he has built a growing following, establishing himself as a rising voice in Brazil’s digital comedy scene.

Check out his Instagram account.

8. André Assunção (Brazil)

André Assunção is a Brazilian comedian who has developed his career within the contemporary stand-up scene, performing in comedy clubs and independent circuits. His material often explores personal experiences and social behaviour, delivered with a conversational and reflective tone rather than purely exaggerated humour. Over time, he has also built a presence online, using digital platforms to reach wider audiences and promote his shows.

Check out his Instagram account.

7. Agustín Andrada (Argentina)

Agustín Andrada is an Argentine comedian and content creator who gained recognition through social media, particularly TikTok and Instagram. He is known for his observational humour and relatable sketches that portray everyday situations and social interactions. His online popularity has allowed him to transition into live performances, including stand-up shows in theatres across Argentina. As part of a new wave of digital comedians.

Check out his Instagram account.

6. Paco de Miguel (Mexico)

Paco de Miguel is a Mexican comedian and digital content creator who rose to prominence through social media, particularly TikTok and Instagram. He became widely known for his character-based comedy, especially his portrayal of “Miss Lety”, a satirical depiction of a school co-ordinator. His videos, which humourously reflect everyday Mexican life and social archetypes, quickly gained millions of followers.

Check out his Instagram account.

5. Jorge Luna (Peru)

Jorge Luna is a Peruvian comedian and content creator who rose to prominence through stand-up comedy and digital media. He is best known as co-host of the popular YouTube show Hablando Huevadas , where his improvised humour and audience interaction have attracted millions of viewers. Luna began performing in small venues before gaining national recognition, eventually selling out large theatres across Peru.

Check out his Instagram account.

4. Lucas Lauriente (Argentina)

Beginning his career in Buenos Aires at just 19, Lucas Lauriente has become one of the most recognised voices in Argentine stand-up. He gained major visibility through festivals such as Ciudad Emergente and later reached wider audiences with a Comedy Central special and his Netflix show Todo lo que sería . His work combines introspective humour with a distinctive, personal take on everyday life.

Check out his Instagram account.

3. Andrés Molinares (Colombia)

Andrés Molinares is a Colombian stand-up comedian and digital content creator from Bogotá, known for his satirical and politically themed humour. He gained visibility through social media platforms, particularly Instagram, where his sketches often parody current events and public figures. His work includes creating multiple comedic characters and viral videos that critique both left- and right-wing political groups. Alongside his online presence, he has performed live stand-up shows across Colombia, building a growing reputation in the national comedy scene.

Check out his Instagram account.

2. André Gropo (Brazil)

André Gropo is a Brazilian stand-up comedian and digital content creator known for his original and unpredictable humour. He built his audience through viral online videos before transitioning into live performances, including his solo show Mesmo Se Ninguém Vier . His comedy often blends absurd ideas with sharp observations about the struggles of performing and everyday life. As part of a new generation of comedians, he combines social media presence with stage work, performing in comedy clubs and cultural venues across Brazil.

Check out his Instagram account.

1. Braulio Rodriguez (Mexico)

Braulio Rod is a Mexican digital comedian and content creator from Tijuana who gained prominence through TikTok. He began posting videos in 2022, quickly building a large audience with comedic sketches, original characters, and exaggerated everyday situations. His content often uses filters and rapid transitions, which he refers to as “time-lapse comedy”, helping him stand out online. With millions of followers and viral videos reaching tens of millions of views, he represents a new generation of Mexican comedians emerging through social media rather than traditional media.

Check out his Instagram account.

This list was created with the help of  HypeAuditor  and is based on the  Audience Quality Score (AQS) . In case of a tie between two or more personalities, we used the engagement rate to determine the order. The keywords used in our search were 'comedian, 'humorist', and 'standup' in all Latin American countries.

The measure is intended to ease pressure on the city's roads as large crowds are expected for the start of the tournament.

“To avoid traffic and problems on the day of the World Cup,” Sheinbaum said when explaining the decision.

The president stressed that the decree does not require all private businesses to close or suspend operations. “It is not an obligation,” she said.

According to the government, industrial production, manufacturing activities and essential services will continue operating as normal. Restaurants, shops and other businesses will also remain open.

Exemptions from the remote-work directive include healthcare services, national security agencies, transport operations, social programmes and activities directly linked to the organisation of the World Cup.

Educational institutions in Mexico City will also suspend classes on June 11, including public pre schools , primary and secondary schools, as well as upper-secondary and higher education institutions under the Public Education system.

Mexico is one of the co-hosts of the 2026 FIFA World Cup alongside the United States and Canada.

Comedy continues to reinvent itself, expanding across platforms and reaching audiences in new ways. What unites these creators is their ability to adapt, experiment, and keep us laughing.

To compile this ranking, we used  HypeAuditor , an AI-powered influencer marketing platform. Its  Audience Quality Score (AQS)  – which evaluates engagement, audience authenticity, growth patterns, and overall community quality – helped us spotlight digital creators who stand out not just for their reach, but for the real impact they’re making.

Now, here are spots 50–26.

50. Isabel Santos (Brazil)

Isabel Santos is a Brazilian digital content creator and online comedian who has built her presence through humour-driven storytelling rooted in everyday rural life. Her content often highlights simple routines, local traditions, and community experiences, presented in an approachable and engaging way. Through her natural narrative style and charismatic delivery, she has developed a form of digital comedy that resonates with wide audiences.

Check out her Instagram profile.

49. José Luis Slobotzky (Mexico)

Better known as Slobotzky, José Luis is a Mexican comedian and writer widely recognised as co-host of the hit podcast La Cotorrisa. His humour is built around storytelling, personal anecdotes, and improvisation, often turning everyday situations into long-form comedic narratives. He began his career in Mexico’s stand-up scene before achieving massive popularity through digital platforms, especially podcasting and YouTube.

Check out his Instagram profile.

48. Ricardo Mendoza (Peru)

A leading figure in Peru’s modern stand-up scene, Ricardo Mendoza gained widespread popularity as co-creator and host of the YouTube show Hablando Huevadas . His comedy is characterised by improvisation, crowd interaction, and an unfiltered style that often pushes boundaries. Starting in smaller venues, he went on to perform in major theatres and arenas, helping to popularise stand-up among younger audiences in Peru.

Check out his Instagram profile.

47. Angelo Castro (Chile)

Leaving behind a career in education, 'Angelo Soul' is a Chilean stand-up comedian who transformed his experience as a teacher into the foundation of his comedy. His show El Profe Sin Jefe draws directly from real classroom situations, blending humour with reflections on the pressures of the education system. Over time, he has toured extensively across Chile and gained visibility through social media and television appearances, including the Festival de la Comedia.

Check out his Instagram profile.

46. Saskia Bernaola Regout (Peru)

Saskia Bernaola is a Peruvian actress, presenter and comedian who has built a multifaceted career across theatre, television and radio. She gained wide recognition through her work in entertainment and comedy programmes, where her sharp wit and strong timing stand out. In addition to her media presence, she has performed in stage productions and comedy shows, demonstrating her versatility as a performer across different formats.

Check out her Instagram profile.

45. Sebastián Parra (Chile)

Sebastián Parra is a Chilean comedian, writer, editor and host of El Consultorio . He has built a following through digital content and live performances, developing a style centred on comedic storytelling and relatable humour. His work is primarily rooted in stand-up and online formats, where his approachable and interactive delivery connects strongly with audiences.

Check out his Instagram profile.

44. Leonardo de Lima Borges (Brazil)

Leonardo de Lima Borges known as Léo Lins is a Brazilian stand-up comedian who has built his career pushing the boundaries of humour. He gained national recognition through television appearances, particularly on The Noite com Danilo Gentili , where his sharp and often dark jokes stood out. His material frequently addresses taboo subjects, which has led to both a loyal following and public criticism.

Check out his Instagram profile.

43. Larissa Mirelly (Brazil)

Building her audience through digital platforms, Larissa Mirelly is a Brazilian comedian who has gained attention for her character-driven sketches on social media. Her content often plays with exaggerated personalities and everyday situations, allowing her to connect with a young online audience.This digital-first approach reflects the evolving landscape of comedy in Brazil.

Check out her Instagram profile.

42. Alex Ortiz (Chile)

Before becoming a comedian, Alex Ortiz worked in the gastronomy sector for several years, only later transitioning into humour through social media. He rose to prominence with his character “Flaite Chileno”, which gained popularity on Twitter by satirising Chilean society and everyday behaviour. His success online led him to stand-up, performing in major events such as the Festival de Talca and later the Festival of Viña del Mar.

Check out his Instagram profile.

41. Thiago Snil (Brazil)

Active within Brazil’s independent comedy scene, Thiago Snil has developed his work through stand-up performances and digital content shared on social media. His humour often leans on everyday observations and personal anecdotes, delivered in a relaxed and approachable manner. Rather than mainstream exposure, his growth has come from consistent appearances in smaller venues and online engagement.

Check out his Instagram profile.

40. Vinícius Magalhães (Brazil)

A regular presence in Brazil’s stand-up circuit, Vinícius Magalhães has built his career through consistent live performances in comedy clubs and theatres across the country. His material often revolves around everyday situations, relationships, and social behaviour, delivered with a natural and conversational tone. Over time, he has also developed a digital following by sharing clips of his routines online.

Check out his Instagram profile.

39. Ignacio Socías (Chile)

Known for his irreverent and self-aware humour, Ignacio Socías is a Chilean comedian and writer who has built a strong presence both on stage and online. He is co-host of the popular podcast Media Semana y Ya Fue , where he combines satire with cultural commentary alongside other comedians. His stand-up often explores personal experiences and social absurdities, delivered with a deliberately awkward and ironic tone.

Check out his Instagram profile.

38. Vicente Moreira de Andrade 'Tiringa' (Brazil)

Rising from rural Brazil to national fame, Tiringa became widely known through viral YouTube videos alongside his partner Batista. His humour is rooted in countryside life, marked by his distinctive voice, spontaneous reactions, and unfiltered personality. What began as informal recordings quickly turned into a massive online following, making him one of Brazil’s most recognisable internet comedians.

Check out his Instagram profile.

37. Ilay Ventura (Argentina)

Active within Argentina’s independent comedy circuit, Ilay Ventura has developed a career through live stand-up performances and a growing presence on social media. Their material often focuses on personal identity, everyday experiences, and contemporary cultural themes, delivered with an honest and conversational tone.

Check out her Instagram profile.

36. Diego Trujillo (Colombia)

Best known as a versatile actor in Colombian film and television, Diego Trujillo has also ventured into stand-up comedy, bringing a reflective and intellectual style to the stage. With a background in architecture, he transitioned into acting before exploring live comedy through monologue-based performances. His shows often combine personal storytelling with philosophical observations, setting him apart from more conventional comedians.

Check out his Instagram profile.

35. Camilo Pardo (Colombia)

Blending magic with stand-up, Camilo Pardo, also known as “El Mago”, has become a distinctive figure in Colombia’s contemporary comedy scene. He began performing magic at a young age before evolving his act to include dark, punchy humour for adult audiences. His popularity grew significantly after co-creating the satirical news show F cks News and appearing on Survivor: La Isla de los Famosos , which brought him national recognition.

Check out his Instagram profile.

34. Brandon Marure (Mexico)

Starting out in Mexico’s stand-up circuit, Brandon Marure has built his career through a mix of live performances and strong activity on TikTok. He regularly uses the platform to promote his shows and share personal, emotionally driven stories that resonate with audiences. In addition to social media, he performs in comedy venues and has appeared as a guest on podcasts, combining digital reach with stage work.

Check out his Instagram profile.

33. Radnier Vargas (Venezuela)

Radnier is Venezuelan content creator who has built his audience primarily through Instagram, where he shares short comedic videos rooted in everyday situations. His humour often reflects urban life, relationships, and cultural behaviours, using expressive acting and quick punchlines to engage viewers.

Check out his Instagram profile.

32. Christian Henríquez (Chile)

Widely recognised in Chile for his iconic character “Ruperto”, Christian Henríquez built his career through television, particularly on the long-running comedy show Morandé con Compañía . His work combines physical comedy with character-driven humour, making him a familiar face in Chilean entertainment. Beyond television, he has expanded into circus arts, creating El Gran Circo de Ruperto , where he performs alongside a team of artists.

Check out his Instagram profile.

31. Michael Rodrigues (Brazil)

Known online as “Menino do RH”, Michael Rodrigues is a Brazilian comedian who transformed his professional background in human resources into a distinctive comedy style. He began creating humour based on real workplace experiences, turning corporate routines into relatable stand-up material. His content gained traction on social media before evolving into live shows such as Em Experiência , performed across multiple cities in Brazil.

Check out his Instagram profile.

30. Federico Simonetti (Argentina)

With a background in law and activism, Federico Simonetti has become a distinctive voice in Argentine stand-up comedy. He is known for blending humour with political and social commentary, often addressing issues such as inequality, media narratives, and human rights. Simonetti has performed extensively in theatres across Argentina and is also the founder of País de Boludos , a satirical project that critiques current affairs.

Check out his Instagram profile.

29. Luis Hachem (Venezuela)

Based in Chile, Venezuelan comedian Luis Hachem has gained visibility through social media, particularly TikTok, where his humorous takes on cultural differences have attracted a wide audience. His content often explores the experience of Venezuelan migrants adapting to life abroad, mixing satire with everyday observations.

Check out his Instagram profile.

28. Lucas Upstein (Argentina)

Part of Argentina’s new generation of stand-up comedians, Lucas Upstein has built his career through a mix of live performances and strong digital presence. He gained popularity with short-form videos on platforms like TikTok, where his quick, relatable humour attracted a large following. Alongside his online success, he has performed in theatres and comedy venues across the country, often collaborating with other comedians from the Buenos Aires scene.

Check out his Instagram profile.

27. Victor Brito (Brazil)

Victor Brito developed his career by turning everyday struggles into comedy. He first gained attention through social media, where his videos about daily life and social issues resonated widely, especially during the pandemic. Building on that visibility, he transitioned into stand-up, creating shows such as Pobremático , which focus on family life and financial hardships with humour.

Check out his Instagram profile.

26. Franco Escamilla (Mexico)

One of Mexico’s most influential stand-up comedians, Franco Escamilla built his career from small comedy venues in Monterrey to international tours. Known for his sharp storytelling and dark, often irreverent humour, he gained widespread recognition through viral monologues and platforms such as YouTube. His specials, including Por la anécdota , have attracted millions of viewers, while his podcast La Mesa Reñoña further expanded his reach.

Check out his Instagram profile.

Discover the next part of the list (numbers 25-1) on June 11.

This list was created with the help of  HypeAuditor  and is based on the  Audience Quality Score (AQS) . In case of a tie between two or more personalities, we used the engagement rate to determine the order. The keywords used in our search were 'comedian, 'humorist', and 'standup' in all Latin American countries, focusing on creators with more than 100,000 followers on Instagram.

“There may be sectors that actually want this to influence the United States elections in November or to influence the Mexican elections in 2027,” she said. “In both cases, the issue of sovereignty is very important.”

She accused U.S. politicians of repeatedly using Mexico as a campaign issue during election periods. “When there are elections in the United States, they have tried to use Mexico for the election,” Sheinbaum said. “We are nobody’s piñata.”

The president defended a constitutional reform recently approved by Mexico’s Chamber of Deputies, arguing that all political parties should support measures aimed at preventing foreign influence in national elections. “All Mexicans should agree with this: that there should be no foreign interference in elections in Mexico,” she said.

The proposed reform would allow federal and local elections to be annulled if authorities determine that foreign interference influenced the outcome. It covers activities such as illicit financing, propaganda campaigns, digital manipulation and political, economic, diplomatic or media pressure from foreign governments.

Sheinbaum acknowledged that clear rules would be needed to determine when foreign interference had occurred and how it could be proven. The measure passed the lower house by 307 votes to 128, with one abstention, and now moves to the Senate for consideration.

Opposition lawmakers have warned that the reform could be applied too broadly or used to challenge legitimate election results. The ruling party argues it is necessary to protect Mexico’s sovereignty and electoral integrity.

Mexico’s next general elections, scheduled for June 2027, will elect all 500 members of the Chamber of Deputies, 17 governors and more than 2,000 local officials.

The Netherlands could win the 2026 FIFA World Cup, according to a data-driven forecast by economist Joachim Klement of investment firm Panmure Liberum, which used economic and sporting indicators to model the tournament’s likely outcome.

The prediction, highlighted by SBS News and visualised by World Visualized , forecasts a final between the Netherlands and Portugal, with the Dutch emerging as champions.

Klement’s model combined factors including GDP, population size, climate conditions, FIFA ranking points, historical tournament performance, host nation advantage and statistical “luck” to estimate the strongest contenders for football’s biggest prize.

According to the projection, European teams are expected to dominate the latter stages of the tournament, with Spain, England, France and Portugal all reaching at least the semi-finals.

The model predicts the Netherlands will defeat Spain in the semi-finals, while Portugal overcomes England to secure a place in the final.

Argentina, the reigning world champions after their 2022 victory in Qatar, are projected to reach the quarter-finals before losing to Portugal.

Netherlands chasing first World Cup title

Despite reaching three previous finals in 1974, 1978 and 2010, the Netherlands have never won the FIFA World Cup.

Portugal, meanwhile, continues to pursue their first-ever World Cup trophy after recent success in European competitions, including the UEFA European Championship and Nations League.

Analysts say the forecast reflects the growing role of statistical modelling in sports, where economics and data science are increasingly influencing how tournaments are evaluated before a ball is even kicked.

The 2026 FIFA World Cup will be jointly hosted by the United States , Canada and Mexico, marking the first tournament hosted by three countries and the first expanded edition featuring 48 teams.

“They asked us if they can stay overnight in Mexico. And we said yes, there is no problem, we have no issue with it. So, they are looking for the venue to be in Tijuana, so that they can stay overnight and travel to the games that will take place in the United States . So, we have no reason to deny them the possibility of staying in Mexico,” the Mexican president stated.

Iran is scheduled to play all three of its group-stage matches in the United States during the 2026 FIFA World Cup. According to Sheinbaum, US authorities reportedly do not want the team based in the country between matches.

The proposed arrangement would likely see the Iranian team staying in Tijuana, a Mexican border city near Southern California , while travelling into the United States for matches.

The 2026 FIFA World Cup will be jointly hosted by the United States, Mexico, and Canada. The tournament is expected to involve complex travel and coordination arrangements as teams move across North America for the expanded competition.

Ticket prices have triggered backlash. FIFA projects record revenue of $10.9 billion. Visa concerns have raised questions about whether fans from less wealthy countries will be able to attend. In Mexico, cartel-related violence and mass shootings have added another layer of unease for travelling supporters.

Yet for Ghanaian sports pundit and commentator Philip Sitsofe, the World Cup still carries a force that often survives doubt.

“The World Cup is the World Cup,” he told Global South World. “Every player wants to play there. We are going to see unknown players announce themselves. We are going to see players who are going to become world superstars after the World Cup.”

But this edition will also test football in ways previous tournaments did not.

“It’s a World Cup we’ve never seen before because the number of teams playing there are way more than what we are used to,” Sitsofe noted.

For Africa, that expansion means opportunity. CAF will have 10 teams at the tournament, giving the continent its biggest representation yet.

Morocco, ranked eighth in the world, arrives with a pedigree after their historic semifinal run in Qatar, must face record champions Brazil. Senegal, following the recent AFCON controversy, faces a major test against France. Algeria will face defending champions Argentina, Egypt, with Mohamed Salah, faces Belgium, currently ranked 9th globally, Côte d'Ivoire will play against four-time champion Germany, South Africa will face host nation Mexico, Tunisia must play the Netherlands and Japan, while DR Congo will compete against Portugal and Colombia.

Our country, Ghana, ranked 74th globally, and the lowest-ranked African nation representing at the tournament must navigate a difficult group featuring England , Croatia, and Panama. Cabo Verde, among the least populous countries on the continent, with less than 600,000 people, debuts at the tournament, also underlining the widening reach of the tournament.

Sitsofe believes Morocco remains Africa’s strongest hope.

“They’ve got what it takes,” he said. “They’ve got the potential. They can mix it up. They might be resilient at the back and still be open enough to attack.”

He also expects Senegal to trouble France , despite the quality of the French side.

“France will be favourites,” he said, “but Senegal have got it in them to cause upsets.”

For Ghana, however, his assessment was far more cautious. The Black Stars enter the tournament at a difficult moment, after failing to qualify for the 2025 AFCON and struggling with form, structure, and confidence.

“The Black Stars have more problems than those countries they are going to play against,” Sitsofe said.

He believes Ghana’s opening match against Panama could define the campaign.

“Ghana has to find a way of beating Panama and see if, in the subsequent games against England and Croatia, they can manage a draw,” he said. “The first game is crucial. We need to win to build some momentum and confidence.”

On Antoine Semenyo, arguably Ghana's best player heading into the tournament based on form, Sitsofe argued that Ghana cannot simply expect individual brilliance to rescue the team.

Semonyo is having the season of his life. The Manchester City forward, who helped his side secure a domestic English cup double, could have represented England, but now has the weight of over 34 million Ghanaians resting on his shoulders to help defeat the country he has called home for most of his life.

“If you are thinking Semenyo is going to be the one man to drive the team forward, then we are mistaken,” he said. “The Black Stars lack structure, direction, habits, tactics, and platform.”

That point may be the central warning for Ghana. The expanded World Cup gives more teams a chance, but it does not erase the demands of elite football. Hope alone will not carry the Black Stars through.

Ghana must now build “a more comprehensive team” rather than waiting for individuals to save it, he said.

Mexico, however, reaffirmed its position of supporting national sovereignty and peaceful conflict resolution, stressing the importance of continued humanitarian cooperation with Cuba.

The remarks come amid growing pressure on the island, including US sanctions impacting fuel supplies and ongoing economic difficulties affecting daily life.

The operations resulted in the seizure of nearly 10,000 litres of chemical precursors and more than seven tonnes of chemical substances and products linked to methamphetamine production.

A video released by Secretariat of the Navy of Mexico, on Sunday,  showed personnel from the Secretariat of the Navy, the Secretariat of Security and Citizen Protection, and the Attorney General’s Office securing the laboratory sites during coordinated raids.

Synthetic drug production remains a growing issue in Mexico

Drug trafficking and synthetic drug manufacturing continue to pose major security and public safety challenges in Mexico. Criminal organisations have expanded the use of hidden laboratories in rural and isolated areas to produce methamphetamine and other narcotics .

Mexican authorities have continued operations against these networks as organised crime groups strengthen their control over drug production and trafficking routes.

Officials confirmed that the chemical materials and substances discovered during the raids were neutralised.

Three of the five laboratories were located in Sinaloa, where authorities confiscated 2,750 litres of chemical precursors and 1,000 kilograms of methamphetamine alongside other substances.

Major methamphetamine seizures recorded in Jalisco and Nayarit

In Saucillo de Maldonado, Jalisco, security personnel recovered 600 kilograms of finished methamphetamine, 750 litres of chemical precursors and 425 kilograms of solid substances.

In El Capomo, Nayarit, authorities seized 780 kilograms of solid methamphetamine and 300 litres of liquid methamphetamine.

Official sources stated that the seizures caused losses exceeding 650 million pesos, equivalent to around 37.5 million US dollars and 32.25 million euros.

Jalisco New Generation Cartel affected by operation

Authorities said the operation mainly impacted the Jalisco New Generation Cartel, also known as CJNG, which allegedly operated within the laboratories discovered in Jalisco and Nayarit.

The Jalisco New Generation Cartel is one of the most powerful organised crime groups in Mexico. The cartel is widely linked to methamphetamine production, drug trafficking and violent criminal activity across several regions of the country. Mexican security forces have frequently targeted the organisation due to its growing influence in the illegal drug trade.

Authorities began investigating the site after receiving an anonymous tip on April 25.

Search collective member Cecilia Flores said the scale of the discovery continues to grow.

“So far, I believe there are around 60 bags, as well as three complete bodies and many signs of charred remains,” said Flores, who is part of the Searching Mothers of Sonora collective.

Flores added that the anonymous source claimed some nearby homes may have been built over buried remains.

“The anonymous source even says some houses were built over the bodies, and that many remains may be buried beneath them. So how do we deal with that? How do we tell someone to tear down their home because one of the bodies may be underneath it?” she said.

Members of the search groups also criticised Mexican authorities, accusing them of failing to provide enough support to families searching for missing relatives.

“They can’t stop the World Cup, but they can stop denying support to the many mothers and grandmothers who deserve and need it,” said Adriana Ornelas, another member of the collective.

The discovery adds to the growing number of clandestine graves uncovered in Jalisco in recent years, highlighting Mexico’s ongoing crisis of disappearances and unidentified remains.

Several of the major burial sites discovered in the region are located near Guadalajara International Airport and Estadio Akron, one of the venues scheduled to host World Cup matches and international visitors during the tournament.

Lara said prosecutors would review whether the evidence was strong enough to justify arrest warrants. He added that if governors or senators were involved, Mexico would first need to begin proceedings to remove their legal immunity.

The prosecutor also criticised U.S. authorities for publicly revealing details of the case, saying the process should remain confidential under bilateral rules. Rocha Moya has denied the allegations, calling them baseless, while Mexico’s Foreign Ministry said documents provided by the U.S. Embassy did not include enough evidence to establish responsibility.

At a press conference in Mexico City, Türk said it was painful to hear testimonies from relatives who have spent years searching for loved ones without answers, often putting their own lives at risk. He called for a national commitment centred on truth, transparency, recognition of victims’ pain and firm state action.

Türk’s visit focused heavily on enforced disappearances, a crisis the UN has repeatedly described as one of the most serious in the world . According to UN figures, more than 130,000 people are officially registered as disappeared or missing in Mexico.

The warning comes weeks after the UN Committee on Enforced Disappearances asked for Mexico’s case to be urgently referred to the UN General Assembly under Article 34 of the convention, citing the scale and persistence of the crisis. The committee pointed to thousands of clandestine graves, tens of thousands of unidentified remains and a severely strained forensic system.

Researchers analysed the impact of a decision to extend hours from 4.5 to 8 per day in high schools under the Full-Time Schools Programme introduced in 2007.

They found that robberies dropped 11% following the change, but that there was little impact on more serious crimes or minor offences.

The biggest effects were found in children aged between 12 and 14 and in lower-income areas.

With less spare time on their hands, the students simply had less opportunity to break the law , the researchers surmised.

Crime is a significant problem across Latin America , imposing direct costs on the region's economies of almost 3.5% of GDP - that would cover three-quarters of all the education budgets.

In Mexico in particular, young people aged between 12 and 17 account for 39% of total convictions.

Increasing the school day likely has other significant benefits to society as well, the study's authors Francisco Cabrera-Hernández and Bárbara A. Zárate-Tenorio. Their research was published in the World Development journal. 

Image: Depositphotos.com

Yet symbolism has not translated into gender equality as a central pillar of Sheinbaum’s governing agenda. Instead, the early phase of her presidency has been defined by the implementation of sweeping judicial and electoral reforms originally proposed by her predecessor, Andrés Manuel López Obrador (also known as AMLO), the founder of her party, Morena (National Regeneration Movement).

These initiatives have dominated legislative activity, signalling a strategic emphasis on institutional restructuring rather than social or redistributive policies. Under Sheinbaum, Morena has recalibrated Mexico’s democratic architecture, systematically redesigning—or dismantling—institutions originally created to limit executive power.

Power without friction

This transformation is underpinned by an unprecedented concentration of political authority. In the 2024 elections, Morena dramatically expanded its control at the state level: the number of Morena governors rose from four to twenty-four of Mexico’s thirty-two states, collectively representing more than 72% of the population, often through electoral coalitions. At the federal level, Sheinbaum commands the strongest majority in the lower chamber since 1982, when the Institutional Revolutionary Party (PRI) governed as a hegemonic force. As a result, opposition parties have been severely weakened.

This concentration of power is reshaping the mechanics of governance. Institutional friction has diminished, as seen in the swift passage of constitutional reforms to expand the military’s role in public security and the approval of the judicial reform that restructures the Supreme Court and introduces the popular election of judges—both advanced with limited cross-party negotiation.

In each case, Morena’s legislative dominance reduced the need for coalition-building, narrowing the space for pluralistic deliberation and weakening traditional checks and balances. Policy decisions are now largely settled within Morena’s internal structures rather than through open democratic contestation.

Mexico’s current political moment cannot be understood as the product of a single election cycle or reform package. The country’s long transition to democracy—unfolding over decades and culminating in the peaceful alternation of power in 2000—was widely described as the end of the PRI’s “perfect dictatorship”, a term popularised by Mario Vargas Llosa and later echoed by Mexican writers like Juan Villoro in assessing Mexico’s uneasy democratic consolidation. That transition sought to dismantle the authoritarian structures consolidated during the PRI’s late-twentieth-century dominance.

Today, however, Mexico’s power configuration increasingly resembles earlier periods, such as the presidency of Gustavo Díaz Ordaz (1965-1970), when authority operated through formal constitutional mechanisms concentrated within a centralised presidential authority, strict control over political opposition and the press, and the violent repression of dissent. The presence of prominent Morena figures such as Marcelo Ebrard, Manuel Bartlett, and Mario Delgado—all of whom built their careers within the PRI before migrating to Morena—underscores continuity rather than rupture.

The democratizing reforms of the late twentieth century rested on fragile pillars that are now under strain. Political pluralism, once gradually institutionalised through competitive elections and proportional representation, has been eroded by Morena’s overwhelming congressional dominance.

Redesigning institutional independence

The judiciary—once conceived as an independent constitutional counterweight and a guarantor of fundamental rights—was overhauled in the 2025 judicial elections. Approved by an estimated turnout of just 13% amid widespread voter confusion, the reform fundamentally alters the courts’ role as an independent arbiter.

Initiated under AMLO and supported by Sheinbaum, the overhaul politicises the judiciary and weakens the rule of law. Rather than constraining executive authority through technical and professional oversight, the judiciary now aligns more closely with the ruling party and faces heightened exposure to infiltration by organised crime through politicised judicial appointments.

This reform is not an attempt to expand her personal executive apparatus, but it does represent a structural consolidation of Morena’s long-term dominance. By reshaping the judiciary’s composition and weakening its autonomy, the governing party reduces institutional counterweights that could constrain future administrations. 

Electoral institutions, long regarded as cornerstones of Mexico’s democratic transition after the disputed 1988 elections, are also poised for transformation. Sheinbaum’s proposed reform of the National Electoral Institute (INE) would significantly reshape Mexico’s electoral system by introducing the popular election of electoral authorities, reducing legislative representation, and tightening public spending. The proposal would also shrink Congress. Most alarmingly, it would dissolve the INE altogether and replace it with a centralised electoral body that would absorb the functions of state-level electoral institutes.

These reforms are unfolding in a context where democratic rights are already fragile. According to the Bertelsmann Transformation Index (BTI) , Mexico scores just 5 out of 10 on the indicators of freedom of expression and separation of powers. Additionally, it receives a score of only 4 points on the civil rights indicator, which barely puts Mexico in the category of a defective democracy rather than an autocracy. The trend, however, shows clear signs of deterioration.

Freedom of expression remains particularly vulnerable. Since 2000, more than 150 journalists have been murdered , while countless others face daily harassment and threats. In her morning press conferences, Sheinbaum has continued the practice of the so-called “Lie Detector,” a rebranded version of AMLO’s “Who’s Who in the Lies,” used to publicly denounce journalists accused of spreading “falsehoods” for criticising Morena.

Mexico’s internal concentration of power also shapes its external posture. Ahead of the upcoming review of the USMCA trade agreement, Sheinbaum’s administration has taken steps aimed at appeasing Washington—often at a cost to Mexican citizens. Security policy, in particular, continues to prioritise optics over justice. The transfer of ninety-two cartel members to date has been a calculated manoeuvre   that bypassed formal extradition procedures.

Controlling the optics

Narrative management lies at the heart of Morena’s governing style. With five years still ahead, Sheinbaum faces a fundamental choice: whether to dismantle organised crime and corruption or to once again rebrand impunity. The president has highlighted a sharp decline in homicide rates , attributing it to improved coordination among security forces. Yet many observers question the reliability of these figures, particularly as reported disappearances have continued to rise annually under Morena governments.

International concern has intensified. In April 2025, the UN Committee on Enforced Disappearances invoked Article 34 of the Convention against Enforced Disappearance with respect to Mexico—a rare step reserved for cases where there are well-founded indications of widespread or systematic disappearances. While not a final judgment, the move placed Mexico under heightened international scrutiny and underscored persistent concerns about impunity and institutional capacity.

Corruption allegations have also trailed Sheinbaum’s administration. Two flagship infrastructure projects championed by Morena—the Tren Maya and the Interoceanic Corridor —have been linked to fatal accidents. In both cases, leaked audio recordings involving AMLO’s children have suggested structural flaws and irregularities in construction processes.

On the international stage, Sheinbaum has shown greater engagement than her predecessor. She attended the G20 summit in Brazil and the G7 meeting in Canada and has strengthened Mexico’s ties with the Community of Latin American and Caribbean States. She has also managed—at least so far—to maintain a cordial relationship with U.S. President Donald Trump, keeping tariffs at bay.

Yet Washington’s renewed focus on the region, including intervention in Venezuela and threats of cross-border military operations against Mexican cartels, poses a challenge to Morena’s discourse of sovereignty. Increasingly, the administration appears more focused on framing and justifying the possibility of U.S. military intervention than on preventing it.

Optics in Mexican politics has always been a priority for the incumbent administration, regardless of the party. The PRI sought to maintain absolute political stability and secure its own, unchallenged dominance over the government, which lasted uninterrupted for 71 years. When the PAN (National Action Party) took power in 2000, the two main things they wanted to portray were “change” and “modernisation”. Now that Morena is in its second mandate, Sheinbaum must navigate competing audiences: the Mexican public, hardline Morena party members, and U.S. President Trump. 

The recent detention and ensuing death of “El Mencho”, the leader of the NGJC—the most powerful and violent cartel of the past ten years—illustrates this logic, in which the target of the optics was the U.S. government as a response to mounting U.S. pressure over fentanyl and insecurity. In Mexico, people know that the detention of high-ranking leaders rarely dismantles criminal structures: fragmentation produces further violence and instability, especially in the case of the Jalisco New Generation Cartel.

Sheinbaum governs without the unifying authority that Andrés Manuel López Obrador commanded over Morena. Internal divisions have become more visible, and controversies involving high-profile figures—like Gerardo Fernández Noroña’s expenses and Adán Augusto López’s resignation as leader of the Senate due to political issues—have exposed cracks beneath the surface of legislative dominance. 

Sustaining the perception of order, economic stability, and sovereign control—particularly in relation to the United States—helps preserve political capital even as structural problems persist. In this sense, optics are not merely a communication strategy; they are a mechanism for maintaining authority in a system where formal checks have eroded.

Whether this approach consolidates democratic stability or further normalises executive dominance will define the remainder of her term. Sheinbaum’s central challenge will be balancing internal party cohesion, public legitimacy, and external pressures.

The opinions and thoughts expressed in this article reflect only the author's views.

Stephania Corpi is a journalist and documentary photographer based in Mexico. She reports on migration, human rights, gender equality, and underreported social and political issues across Latin America. Her work has appeared in The Washington Post , El País , The Guardian , NPR, Texas Public Radio, and other international outlets.

#16 – Carlos Slim Helu

Carlos Slim Helu remains the richest person in the Global South in 2026. The Mexican tycoon built his fortune through telecom giant América Móvil and a vast portfolio of investments under the conglomerate Grupo Carso.

Slim once held the title of the world’s richest person between 2010 and 2013 and continues to dominate business in Mexico and much of Latin America. His holdings stretch across telecommunications, infrastructure, retail and finance, reflecting decades of acquisitions across the Mexican economy.

#21 – Mukesh Ambani

Mukesh Ambani is the wealthiest person in India and one of Asia’s most influential business figures. As chairman of Reliance Industries, he oversees a conglomerate involved in petrochemicals, oil refining, telecommunications and retail.

Reliance has expanded aggressively into digital services through Jio, which transformed India’s telecom market by bringing affordable internet to hundreds of millions of users.

#26 – Zhang Yiming

Zhang Yiming, co-founder of ByteDance, built his fortune from the global success of TikTok and other digital platforms. The company’s rapid expansion turned him into one of China’s richest entrepreneurs.

ByteDance’s algorithm-driven content platforms have attracted billions of users worldwide, making it one of the most valuable technology firms to emerge from China.

#27 – Zhong Shanshan

Often dubbed the “Lone Wolf” of Chinese business, Zhong Shanshan founded bottled-water giant Nongfu Spring and later expanded into pharmaceuticals.

His companies have benefited from China’s vast consumer market, helping him rise to become one of the country’s richest individuals.

#30 – Germán Larrea Mota Velasco

Mexican magnate Germán Larrea Mota Velasco leads Grupo México, the country’s largest mining company and one of the world ’s major copper producers.

Under his leadership, the firm has expanded its mining and infrastructure operations across the Americas, cementing his position as one of Latin America’s richest businessmen.

Who dominates the top 10?

The very top of the global wealth rankings remains heavily dominated by US technology billionaires, according to the latest Forbes Billionaires data.

Elon Musk sits far ahead of the rest with an estimated $839 billion, making him by far the richest person in the world. His fortune is tied mainly to Tesla, SpaceX and artificial intelligence firm xAI.

The gap between Musk and the rest of the billionaire class is enormous. The next richest individuals have fortunes roughly one-third of his wealth or less.

Among them are several other US technology founders. Larry Page is worth roughly $257 billion, while fellow Google co-founder Sergey Brin has about $237 billion.

Jeff Bezos, the founder of Amazon, holds an estimated $224 billion, while Mark Zuckerberg, the chief executive of Meta, has around $222 billion.

The top ranks also include figures outside the US technology sector. Bernard Arnault, chairman of luxury group LVMH, remains Europe’s richest person with a fortune of about $178 billion.

Infantino’s comments come as parts of Mexico have seen roadblocks, burned vehicles and clashes after the Mexican military operation that authorities said killed the head of the Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG). Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum has insisted there is “no risk” to visitors, while Infantino said he had spoken with her and reiterated FIFA’s “full confidence” in Mexico as a host.

Mexican security officials and media reports have put the death toll from the violence at at least 70, while security concerns have already affected sporting events, including the cancellation of a World Cup diving event scheduled in the Guadalajara area.

Mexico is set to co-host the tournament with the United States and Canada, staging 13 matches across Mexico City, Guadalajara and Monterrey, including four in Guadalajara, one of the host cities in Jalisco state.