Zapopan, Jalisco — Mexico will deploy nearly 100,000 security personnel for the 2026 FIFA World Cup as part of a major security operation named Kukulkán, officials announced Thursday.
The coordinated plan involves more than 20 federal institutions and includes cooperation with the United States, Canada, and FIFA to address any risks during the tournament.
Public Security Secretary Omar García Harfuch detailed the operation during a morning press conference in Zapopan, Jalisco. He said the planning aims to weaken criminal structures and reduce crime rates in host states ahead of the arrival of millions of visitors and thousands of international representatives.
Authorities established a strategic coordination table involving Mexico’s security cabinet and FIFA representatives. This collaborative space allows close monitoring of preparations and ensures all involved agencies operate under a unified command and response system for host cities.
General Román Villalvazo Barrios, head of the 2026 World Cup Coordination Center, explained that Operation Kukulkán will deploy a force exceeding 99,000 personnel from the armed forces, public security agencies, and private security companies.
The operation will include 188 canine teams specialized in detecting explosives and illicit substances, along with equine teams and a fleet of more than 2,100 military vehicles.
Additionally, 378 civilian vehicles will be dedicated exclusively to escorting heads of state, national teams, and foreign delegations. Military aircraft, decontamination tents, and anti-drone technology systems will also be available.
The security scheme designed by the Control Center will provide specific protection devices for each venue, team hotel, and training zone. This system organizes security rings covering immediate and distant surveillance of points of interest, with additional reinforcement forces on standby.
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