Canada PM’s FIFA Complaint Threatens World Cup Opener in Mexico

Mexico City, Mexico — With less than a year until the first match of the 2026 FIFA World Cup kicks off at the Estadio Azteca, the opening game’s location is now in jeopardy due to a formal complaint from Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney. Reports from Mexican media outlets La Política Online and La Columna Digital indicate that Carney has sent a letter to FIFA urging the organization to strip Mexico of the inaugural match, citing security concerns in Mexico City.

Security Concerns and Political Turmoil

Prime Minister Carney’s letter reportedly argues that neither Mexico nor the United States should host the opening match due to recent unrest. His concerns stem from multiple incidents, including violent protests against gentrification in Mexico City and the murders of two aides to Mexico City Mayor Clara Brugada.

On May 20, Ximena Guzmán and José Muñoz, both employees of Brugada’s administration, were killed on Calzada de Tlalpan near Xola—a major thoroughfare leading to the Estadio Azteca. Carney emphasized the dangers of traveling along this route, casting doubt on the safety of players, officials, and fans during the tournament.

Additionally, anti-gentrification protests in early July turned destructive, with demonstrators vandalizing businesses and leaving threatening messages for foreign residents. Another protest is scheduled for July 20 in southern Mexico City, further heightening concerns over instability.

U.S. Also Deemed Unsuitable

Carney’s letter also reportedly disqualifies the United States as an alternative host due to ongoing political tensions. Recent immigration raids by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) have sparked widespread protests in cities including Los Angeles, New York, Chicago, and Washington, D.C. Despite public backlash, former President Donald Trump has vowed to continue the crackdown on migrants.

The Mexican national team has already felt the impact of these tensions. During the recent CONCACAF Gold Cup, their match against the Dominican Republic at Los Angeles’ SoFi Stadium was nearly relocated due to security concerns. Although the game proceeded, attendance was notably lower than usual for a Mexican team fixture.

Mexico’s World Cup Hosting Plans

Mexico is currently set to host 13 matches during the 2026 World Cup, including the opening game at the Estadio Azteca—which would make it the first stadium in history to host three World Cup tournaments. Ten group-stage matches, two Round of 16 games, and one Round of 8 match are scheduled in Mexico before the tournament shifts exclusively to the U.S. for the quarterfinals onward. The final will be held at MetLife Stadium in New York.

FIFA has yet to publicly respond to Carney’s complaint, but the controversy raises questions about whether Mexico City will retain its historic hosting role.