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.

While air and maritime trafficking still play roles, land routes through Mexico dominate the final stage of the journey.

Here’s how the flow typically works.

The land route: Mexico as the gateway

The map above highlights a green land corridor running from Colombia northward through Panama and Central America, into Mexico and across major U.S. border cities such as El Paso, Laredo and Mexicali.

This aligns with findings from the DEA’s National Drug Threat Assessment, which consistently reports that Mexican transnational criminal organisations control most wholesale drug distribution in the United States. After cocaine leaves South America, it is transported through countries including Panama, Costa Rica, Honduras and Guatemala before entering Mexico.

From there, it moves overland across the U.S.–Mexico border, often concealed in vehicles, commercial shipments or through smuggling tunnels. U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) seizure data regularly shows large quantities of cocaine, methamphetamine, heroin and fentanyl intercepted at southwest border ports of entry.

The land route remains dominant because it allows traffickers to move bulk quantities with established logistics networks and corruption infrastructure already in place, according to the DEA.

The Sea route: Caribbean and Pacific maritime corridors

The map’s blue arrows illustrate maritime trafficking through both the Pacific Ocean and the Caribbean Sea.

UNODC reports that traffickers frequently use “go-fast” boats , fishing vessels, semi-submersibles and container shipping to move cocaine from Colombia’s Pacific coast and Caribbean ports. From there, shipments pass through Central American coastal states or Caribbean islands before continuing north.

The U.S. Coast Guard plays a central role in maritime interdictions. In recent years, it has announced record cocaine seizures in the eastern Pacific, underscoring how significant the sea route remains. However, despite substantial seizures, maritime trafficking persists due to the vast expanse of open water and limited enforcement capacity relative to the scale of operations.

The air route

The map also shows air corridors from northern South America into Central America.

While less common for bulk shipments today than in the 1980s and 1990s, air trafficking still occurs. According to UNODC, traffickers use small aircraft to land in remote airstrips in countries such as Honduras and Nicaragua. From there, shipments are transferred to land vehicles for overland transport north.

Air routes are typically used for high-value loads that require speed and reduced exposure time.

While cocaine routes remain critical, the DEA notes that synthetic drugs such as fentanyl increasingly dominate the U.S. overdose crisis. Unlike cocaine, fentanyl is often manufactured in Mexico using precursor chemicals sourced from Asia and then trafficked across the land border.

This shift has further established Mexico’s role as the primary entry point for illicit drugs into the United States.

President Claudia Sheinbaum said there are “all guarantees” for safe hosting of the tournament, despite recent security challenges.

However, the deadly violence that erupted after federal forces killed Nemesio “El Mencho” Oseguera Cervantes, leader of the powerful Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG), shook parts of western Mexico, especially in Guadalajara and nearby regions. The unrest included roadblocks, burning vehicles, and clashes between cartel members and security forces.

Guadalajara, one of Mexico’s three World Cup host cities alongside Mexico City and Monterrey, is scheduled to host four matches this summer, including high-profile group–stage games featuring teams like Mexico, Spain, South Korea and Uruguay.

The city’s stadium and surrounding areas saw heightened tension as authorities responded with increased security and temporary suspensions of local football matches.

FIFA and local authorities are monitoring the evolving situation closely. While the sport ’s governing body has not announced plans to remove Mexico from its hosting duties, security concerns have been raised, and discussions are reportedly ongoing about how to reassure visiting fans, teams, and officials.

Despite the concerns, preparations continue. Organisers and governments are planning enhanced safety measures, from military and police deployments to advanced surveillance technologies designed specifically for the tournament. Experts stress that major international events like this often involve layered security planning, with cooperation between host nations critical for success.

Mexico’s 2026 World Cup matches are still scheduled to take place in the country, but recent violence, particularly in Jalisco, has intensified scrutiny of security arrangements. With just months until kick-off, authorities are under pressure to restore confidence, reassure international visitors, and ensure safe conduct of the world’s biggest football event.

Drone footage recorded on Monday, February 23, showed deserted streets across the tourist hub, with burned-out vehicles abandoned along roadways. Several shops remained shuttered, while others bore charred exteriors and scattered debris in the aftermath of the unrest.

On 22 February 2026, the Mexican Army killed El Mencho during a security operation in Tapalpa, Jalisco, after a firefight that left him wounded and later dead. Intelligence support from the United States played a key role in locating him.

President Claudia Sheinbaum welcomed the result as evidence of strengthened Mexican capacity to take on organised crime without direct U.S. military involvement. Yet the operation did not proceed quietly. Violent reprisals by CJNG members spread across at least 20 Mexican states, with roadblocks, burning vehicles, explosions and shootings reported soon after news of his death. Authorities reported multiple deaths, including soldiers and civilians, while air travel and public services were disrupted in several cities.

El Mencho’s rise and notoriety

Born in 1966 in Michoacán, El Mencho rose from humble beginnings to become the head of CJNG, a cartel known for its ruthlessness and sophisticated trafficking networks. The group used speedboats, submarines and other unconventional methods to move drugs from Latin America towards the U.S. border. Its tactics included extreme violence and the use of drone-mounted explosives, making it one of the most feared criminal organisations in the region.

Despite his notoriety, El Mencho also cultivated local support in some areas, where he and his associates funded fiestas and provided community assistance. However, those actions did little to mask the cartel’s brutal reputation, which included reports of alleged execution sites and intimidation of rivals.

Immediate fallout and deeper concerns

The post-operation backlash was swift and violent. CJNG gunmen reportedly attacked infrastructure, blocked highways and engaged security forces in pitched battles. Schools were closed in several states, and citizens were advised to remain indoors. In some regions, public transport was suspended, and flights were cancelled due to safety concerns.

Security analysts warn that the death of a cartel leader does not necessarily weaken an organisation in the long term. Instead, it can prompt fractures and internal power struggles as ambitious lieutenants vie for control.

“[These] are the way a criminal order responds when it feels challenged. To understand them, you have to look at the meaning behind them, not just the fires or the territory,” security analyst Edgar Guerra wrote on X .

Without a clear successor, CJNG could become even more volatile, leading to further violence and instability.

Regional and international impact

The operation underscores ongoing cooperation between Mexico and the United States, particularly given the role of shared intelligence. U.S. officials had offered up to US$15 million for information that would lead to El Mencho’s capture, reflecting the cartel’s significant reach and the global scale of the drugs trade.

Yet experts stress that removing one individual, even one as powerful as El Mencho, is not a panacea. Cartels have deep roots, extensive networks and the capacity to regenerate leadership. As rival factions compete for CJNG’s territory and profit streams, violence may escalate further.

What they said

Mexico's President Claudia Sheinbaum wrote on X, “There is absolute coordination with the governments of all states,” adding that “in the vast majority of the national territory, activities are proceeding with complete normality.” US Deputy Secretary of State Christopher Landau called Oseguera “one of the bloodiest and most ruthless drug kingpins” and said, “This is a great development for Mexico, the US, Latin America , and the world.”

Supporters of Mexico’s reform argue that shorter working hours can strengthen productivity, formal employment and social wellbeing, particularly in sectors where long shifts are common. The measure builds on previous increases to the minimum wage and expanded labour rights in recent years, signalling continuity in a policy direction that prioritises stronger state involvement in regulating working conditions .

Argentina, under President Javier Milei, is taking a contrasting route. The government has advanced a labour reform focused on deregulation, including easing hiring procedures, adjusting severance frameworks and modifying rules that affect union activity. Officials describe the changes as necessary to encourage private investment, reduce informality and address long-standing economic instability.

The Argentine approach reflects a broader pro-market agenda aimed at reducing what the government views as rigidities in the labour system. Trade unions and opposition groups have raised concerns about the potential impact on worker protections, while the administration argues that greater flexibility could generate employment opportunities in a struggling economy .

Together, the two reform processes highlight a clear regional divergence. Mexico is expanding statutory protections and reducing legal working hours, reinforcing a model centred on labour safeguards. Argentina is pursuing structural liberalisation intended to stimulate growth through market mechanisms. Rather than a question of right or wrong, the contrast underscores two distinct interpretations of how labour policy should respond to economic challenges in Latin America .

Olivia Garza, Vice President of the Association of Cubans Residing in Mexico “José Martí”, said the campaign aims to promote regional unity. She argued that “defending Cuba is defending all of Latin America ”, accusing Washington of seeking to impose a “Monroe Doctrine 2.0” to assert control over the region’s resources. Mexico’s president, Claudia Sheinbaum, has stated that her government will continue sending humanitarian aid to Havana and has criticised the US measures as unfair.

Economist Rafael Salvador Espinoza estimates rents around the stadium could rise by as much as 45% during the tournament period. However, he argues that prioritising one month of high returns over stable year-long leases may not be economically sound. The opening match of the tournament will take place at the Estadio Azteca in Mexico City, marking the start of a month-long global event whose local impact is already being felt.

The figure is based on firearms that Mexican authorities have recovered and successfully traced to their country of origin.

High-level Mexican officials, including the defense minister, highlighted the role of U.S.-sourced weapons during recent briefings, noting that many of the seized guns are high-powered rifles and ammunition often used by cartel groups in violent confrontations with security forces.

The tracing figures have been cited in discussions between Mexico and the United States as both governments seek to strengthen cooperation against cross-border weapons trafficking.

U.S. law enforcement agencies assist in firearms tracing when Mexican authorities submit recovered weapons for identification. However, experts note that tracing depends on the sample of weapons submitted and may not represent the entire universe of firearms in criminal hands.

Illegal arms trafficking has been a persistent concern along the U.S.-Mexico border, with guns often purchased legally in U.S. gun markets before being smuggled south. Mexican authorities argue that addressing the flow of weapons from the United States is critical to reducing cartel firepower and violence .

The issue remains a point of ongoing dialogue between the two countries as they work to develop strategies to limit the illegal movement of firearms.

Bachelet said she was honoured by the nomination and stressed the significance of the candidacy being backed by three major Latin American nations. She described it as a sign of renewed commitment to cooperation and to the United Nations at a time of mounting global challenges, including conflict, climate change , inequality and declining trust in institutions.

“Around 1 million young people want to buy tickets, but there are only 150,000 available,” she said.

While seemingly innocuous, the appeal has sparked debate within the K-pop industry. 

Some insiders noted that the request should have been directed to Hybe, BTS’ management company, rather than the South Korean president. One official noted that world tours are carefully planned based on market research, venue availability and artist schedules, leaving little room for last-minute additions.

BTS has previously added extra shows in cities such as Tampa, Stanford and Las Vegas in response to strong ticket demand, and additional dates in Japan and the Middle East are expected. 

Ticket sales probed

The controversy coincides with frustration among Mexican fans, many of whom failed to secure tickets during the initial global sale. 

The Mexican consumer watchdog has opened an investigation into Ticketmaster and is probing resale platforms such as StubHub and Viagogo for “abusive and disloyal practices.” 

Original tickets ranged from roughly 1,800 to 17,800 pesos ($100–$1,030), while resale prices soared to as much as 92,100 pesos ($5,300).

Why is K-pop big in Mexico?

Mexico is one of the world’s most passionate K-pop markets , with over 14 million fans on Spotify alone. Streaming of Korean pop music has grown more than 500% in five years, and fandom culture thrives through social media, fan art, themed events and community initiatives.

“K-Pop artists connect with fans by being real and speaking openly about their feelings, which really resonates with young listeners in Mexico,” said Alejandro Grageda, head of music at Spotify Mexico. 

“They also promote an optimistic vision of the world—something that inspires fans to dream, believe in something better, and build strong, supportive communities together,” Grageda added. 

According to the president, Wedding voluntarily presented himself at the United States embassy in Mexico City before being transferred to US authorities. Sheinbaum underlined that Mexico’s constitution and national security laws prohibit joint operations by foreign investigative agencies, allowing only cooperation through the exchange of information between governments.

Sheinbaum added that this position has been clearly communicated to Washington, noting that while Mexico maintains security cooperation with the US, it does so strictly within its legal framework. Her remarks come amid heightened international scrutiny of cross-border security coordination between the two countries, particularly in cases involving organised crime and extradition.

Among the most striking elements is an owl sculpture at the entrance, a Zapotec symbol linked to night and death, whose beak partially covers a human face believed to represent the tomb’s occupant. Inside, mural paintings rendered in red, blue, green, white and ochre are now being studied by specialists from Mexico’s National Institute of Anthropology and History (INAH).

President Claudia Sheinbaum described the find as the country’s most significant archaeological discovery in a decade, highlighting its exceptional preservation and the cultural and symbolic information it provides about Zapotec society .

The fires have burned around 50,000 hectares, affected an estimated 7,000 people and claimed at least 21 lives. The Mexican personnel come from the National Forestry Commission (Conafor) and the Secretariat of National Defence (Sedena), and are trained to operate in complex wildfire scenarios.

Chile’s Foreign Minister Alberto van Klaveren thanked the Mexican government, led by President Claudia Sheinbaum, for its rapid response, saying Mexico offered assistance “from the very first moment”. He highlighted the broader international backing Chile has received, describing it as a reflection of the solidarity Chile has also shown other countries in times of crisis.

Her portfolio includes five AI-driven projects tackling real-world problems. Among them are drones capable of cleaning bodies of water and reforesting degraded land through automated seed dispersal, as well as humanoid robots such as Conia and Sonia , designed to support education and assist older adults with tasks such as reading prescriptions, recipes and newspapers.

The display includes embroideries created by 200 artisans from all 32 federal entities, using a wide range of techniques such as cross stitch, drawn thread and pedal loom weaving. Each piece incorporates multiple colours and reflects both ancestral and contemporary textile traditions.

Every state contributed designs linked to local identity, from urban symbols like the Mexico City metro, axolotls and lucha libre masks, to animals regarded as sacred by indigenous communities in regions such as Nayarit.

Guinness World Records validated the exhibition as a first-of-its-kind achievement, confirming that it met all criteria before awarding the title. Organisers said the recognition gives the initiative international visibility, and authorities are considering preserving the entire collection as a single permanent installation at the cultural complex.

“He became our emotional support director because everyone asks about him,” said Juan Sosa, Kaliman’s guardian and a council employee. “If I walk ahead, Kaliman follows me, and staff know I’m coming to work.” He is the first dog employed by the municipality and leads the ‘Huellitas Municipales’ programme, which now includes other rescued dogs and cats cared for by city offices.

Kaliman’s story has drawn attention as a symbol of compassion in urban animal welfare. Once timid and wary of humans, he gradually bonded with municipal staff, choosing Sosa as his companion.

“He asked me what my opinion was about what they had done in  Venezuela , and I told him very clearly that our Constitution is very clear: we do not agree with interventions, period,” Sheinbaum stated. She described the exchange as “friendly” and respectful.

A tanker carrying 85,000 barrels of Mexican crude oil arrived in Havana, continuing ongoing exports to Cuba amid Venezuela’s deepening energy crisis and shifting regional dynamics. The government confirmed the shipments are part of sustained contracts or humanitarian aid, and that Mexico has become a significant supplier to Cuba as Venezuelan output declines. Data shows Mexico exported an average of over 12,000 bpd to Cuba in 2025, surpassing Venezuela’s deliveries, although President Claudia Sheinbaum insists levels remain within historical norms. Critics, including opposition figures, argue the exports lack transparency and represent a financial contribution to Cuba’s government without clear public accounting. The move occurs against rising geopolitical tension with the United States over Cuba and Venezuela policy.

Sheinbaum orders foreign affairs talks after Trump’s cartel claims

President Claudia Sheinbaum instructed Mexico’s Secretary of Foreign Affairs, Juan Ramón de la Fuente, to meet with US Secretary of State Marco Rubio to discuss security cooperation after US President Donald Trump announced plans to “start attacking the cartels on the ground.” Sheinbaum said the talks aim to “strengthen communication” and share information on seized drug laboratories and coordinated efforts. She also spoke to Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva to reaffirm a shared understanding of security issues, describing Trump’s rhetoric as part of his communication style. The diplomatic move reflects efforts to balance cooperation with the US and Mexico’s sovereignty amid heightened cross-border security concerns.

Experts warn of potential terrorism risk ahead of 2026 World Cup

Security specialists have flagged a potential terrorism risk in Mexico during the 2026 FIFA World Cup, noting that the heightened global profile of the event could attract threats. At a security panel, they urged stronger coordination among Mexico, the United States and Canada to improve screening and border security, and highlighted vulnerabilities such as gaps in shared traveller-vetting systems. Former Mexican ambassador Arturo Sarukhán emphasised the need for integrated security strategies to prevent incidents tied to organised crime or extremist actors during the tournament. The warning reflects broader concerns about public safety and international cooperation in the run-up to one of the world’s largest sporting events.

Government ups its bet on voluntary disarmament to curb violence

Mexico’s federal government is increasing cash incentives for the voluntary surrender of firearms under its “Sí al Desarme, Sí a la Paz” programme, part of a broader strategy to reduce violence and illegal gun circulation. The new scale of payments offers higher amounts for surrendering machine guns, military-grade rifles and other weapons compared with last year, alongside protections for participants’ anonymity. The initiative, coordinated by the Secretariat of the Interior and backed by the army for the secure destruction of collected arms, is intended to tackle structural causes of violent crime by removing firearms from circulation. Officials say the programme boosts community safety while encouraging peaceful engagement.

National forest policy updated with new zoning framework

The government published a national forest zoning agreement under the General Law of Sustainable Forest Development, creating a unified, technical framework to manage Mexico’s forests. The zoning categorises forested areas by natural vocation, from conservation and restoration to sustainable production zones, using geospatial data and ecological inventories to guide planning and protect biodiversity. Authorities say the policy aims to improve coordination across government levels, promote conservation and support sustainable resource use while safeguarding soil, water and ecosystem services . The move responds to long-standing calls for more strategic, science-based forest governance and environmental planning.

The debate followed the capture of Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro and First Lady Cilia Flores by US forces after strikes on Caracas and other areas, with Washington stating the operation was linked to narcoterrorism charges. Venezuelan authorities declared a national emergency, accusing the United States of attempting to seize strategic resources, particularly oil and minerals .

At the Security Council, the US rejected accusations of military aggression, describing the operation as a limited law enforcement action rather than an act of war. That explanation was challenged by several delegations, including Russia, China and Colombia . Russia’s UN ambassador said there was no justification for US actions in Venezuela, while China said it was “deeply shocked” by what it called bullying behaviour. The African A3 group also expressed serious concerns.

The operation has drawn condemnation beyond the UN chamber, with criticism from governments across Latin America, BRICS countries and other regions. European Union members and several European states called for respect for international law, though most avoided directly condemning the United States, highlighting divisions in the international response.

The controversy emerged after the coronation of Miss Mexico, Fátima Bosch, on 21 November, when accusations of irregularities in the competition’s outcome began to circulate, claims that have not been independently verified. Thai police are actively seeking co-owner Anne Jakrajutatip, who has been missing since a Bangkok court issued an arrest warrant in November on fraud charges related to alleged financial irregularities within JKN Global Group, the conglomerate that owns 50 per cent of Miss Universe.

Jakrajutatip’s absence from recent hearings has compounded the situation, and her company is set to be expelled from the Thai stock exchange on 27 December amid the ongoing legal proceedings. Meanwhile, Mexican authorities have also intensified their actions, with prosecutors reportedly seeking legal measures against Raúl Rocha Cantú, the organisation’s other co-owner, in connection with a separate investigation.

In addition to fraud allegations against Jakrajutatip, Thai police say they have formally received a defamation complaint concerning Bosch in Bangkok, demonstrating the broader judicial scrutiny surrounding the pageant. National and international observers have noted that the multiple legal fronts now facing the Miss Universe organisation illustrate the complex challenges that can arise when global entertainment brands intersect with legal, financial and regulatory systems across different jurisdictions.

The unfolding situation has also prompted organisational changes: Miss Universe has announced plans to relocate its headquarters from Mexico City to New York , citing legal uncertainty and operational concerns. The moves reflect broader implications for the pageant’s global operations, raising questions about governance and accountability within one of the world’s most recognised international competitions.

An independent cleaning worker told Viory reporters, “They have to fulfil the union and labour agreements and mainly respect the work being done, but well, we already did our part, it has to be respected, and they have to give us our place.” The protest disrupted the city’s normal routines, with more than a dozen trucks unloading waste onto sidewalks, fires prompting a response from firefighters, and demonstrators damaging government property. Local medical teams treated several people at the scene, though no serious injuries were reported.

Residents described the event as alarming. Juan Castillo, a neighbour: “There is a message for the government to adjust to their petitions, to reach a common agreement and avoid all these kinds of jokes, it is ugly.” The protest reflects broader tensions in Mexico over labour rights and union representation, highlighting how workers’ demands can escalate into public demonstrations when official channels stall.

This year, vast crowds made the journey carrying statues, photos and offerings. Many travelled on their knees, reflecting both devotion and the burdens they hoped to leave behind. For some, the pilgrimage is connected to economic hardship, migration challenges or health crises, issues that resonate widely across the Global South and diaspora communities.

One young student, for example, completed the route crawling after promising to repay the Virgin if he was able to resume his studies following serious financial difficulties. A local businesswoman returned to give thanks for work and health during the year and to pray for her husband’s safe return from the United States . Another father completed the journey on his knees with his children after believing his infant son, once given little chance of survival due to a tumour, had been granted another chance at life.

Many described the physical strain of the last stretch as overwhelming, speaking of the moment when the entrance to the basilica comes into sight, and the sense of weight becomes almost unbearable. Others framed the pilgrimage as an act of renewal, saying they had come to express gratitude for health , protection and the hope of remaining “clean” and free from the struggles that once defined their lives.

According to tradition, the Virgin Mary appeared in 1531 to an Indigenous man named Juan Diego, and devotion to Our Lady of Guadalupe has since become woven into Mexico’s cultural and spiritual identity. Yet its significance extends far beyond the country. Authorities estimate that around four million pilgrims will visit the basilica between 11 and 12 December, placing the event among the world ’s most attended religious gatherings.