Mexico shifts to remote work and school closures for World Cup knockout match

The Mexican government announced that on 30 June, the day of the national team’s round‑of‑16 game against Ecuador, many federal employees will work from home and classes in Mexico City’s schools and universities will be suspended. The measure aims to reduce traffic congestion, improve road safety and facilitate security operations around the match. Employees in essential sectors such as health, public safety and World Cup event organisation are exempt.

At the same time, residents in several states report heightened fear as cartel‑related violence escalates around World Cup games. In Sinaloa, Culiacán and other regions, people are watching matches indoors or in small venues, avoiding public celebrations. Local businesses see limited gains from the tournament, and some communities note a decline in nightly violence compared with previous years, though security remains a concern.