FIFA president Gianni Infantino says he is “very reassured” about Mexico’s World Cup hosting, despite recent cartel violence that killed 74 people and disrupted cities.

FIFA president Gianni Infantino said he is “very reassured” about safety for the upcoming football World Cup in Mexico.

Infantino made his first comments on recent cartel violence in the Colombian city of Barranquilla, following the killing of a powerful drug lord.

“Very reassured, everything’s good. It’s going to be spectacular,” Infantino told AFP.

His statement comes after cartel members went on a rampage in 20 Mexican states, including host city Guadalajara.

The violence erupted after security forces killed Nemesio “El Mencho” Oseguera, leader of the Jalisco New Generation Cartel.

At least 74 people were killed during the operation and subsequent clashes near Guadalajara.

Only one victim was a civilian, according to the Mexican government.

Residents and tourists were forced to take cover as gunmen blocked roads and torched vehicles.

“It feels like we’re in a war zone,” said 41-year-old engineer Javier Perez in Puerto Vallarta.

Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum earlier assured there was “no risk” to World Cup fans.

She said the situation was “gradually returning to normal.”

Guadalajara is scheduled to host four group-stage matches, including a key Uruguay vs Spain game.

The city will also co-host a qualifying playoff tournament with Monterrey in March.

Jalisco Governor Pablo Lemus ruled out any change to the hosting lineup.

He said there was “absolutely no risk” of Guadalajara being dropped.

Mexico City and Monterrey, which will also host matches, were spared the recent unrest.

The violence even forced the suspension of a first-division football game in Queretaro.

Oseguera was a founding member of one of Mexico’s most violent drug cartels.

He had a USD 15 million bounty on his head from US authorities.

The fallout from the violence has extended beyond football.

Japanese car manufacturer Honda suspended operations at its Guadalajara assembly plant.

“As a precautionary measure, our operations… were temporarily suspended,” said spokesperson Daniela Sanchez.

Mexico is a major automotive hub for manufacturers like Ford, General Motors, BMW, and Audi.

 The Sun Malaysia