Officials are planning enhanced security measures, described as a 'ring of steel,' around England's team hotel in Mexico City. This follows disruptive tactics used against Ecuador, England's previous opponent, which included cars, fog horns, fireworks, and loud music outside their hotel.
Efforts are underway between FIFA and local authorities to establish a security cordon around England's accommodation. While specific details are still being finalized, the aim is to ensure that the team's preparations for their upcoming match are not impacted in the same way Ecuador's were. The Ecuadorian team also reportedly experienced delays at the airport and on the roads during their stay.
England's squad will receive a police escort during their time in the Mexican capital. The team will not be staying at the same hotel as Ecuador but in a nearby location. England is expected to have around 8,000 ticket holders at the match, with an estimated total of 15,000 England supporters anticipated to attend the fixture at the Azteca Stadium.
There is currently no intelligence suggesting that England fans will be targeted by the home crowd. Organizers are hopeful the tournament visit will proceed without significant incidents. England fans are being encouraged to be respectful of their hosts and to act with good sportsmanship if their team progresses.
In related news, some England fans are attempting to resell their match tickets for substantial profits, with some listings on FIFA's resale portal exceeding £22,800. Category one tickets have reportedly been listed for over £51,000.