Mexico City officials are implementing enhanced security protocols and crowd restrictions for public viewing events ahead of Sunday's World Cup Round of 16 match against England. The decision follows a deadly incident during celebrations for Mexico's 2-0 win against Ecuador earlier this week.
Clara Brugada, the Mayor of Mexico City, announced Friday that security personnel and crowd limits at the Angel of Independence and a main square festival would be doubled. The measures were put in place after four individuals died amidst the celebrations for Mexico's advancement to the knockout stage.
According to city officials, three of the deaths were attributed to asphyxiation, while a fourth person died of cardiac arrest following an epileptic seizure. The team's victory was so impactful that it triggered seismic sensors across Mexico City, registering as an artificial earthquake.
In a separate security concern, England's hotel in Mexico City was reportedly under heavy police presence, including riot shields and road blockades, on Friday. This measure was enacted as local fans attempted to disrupt the English squad. Mexico fans had reportedly employed similar tactics against Ecuador before their Round of 32 match, prompting a formal complaint to FIFA.
The lead-up to the highly anticipated match has also involved logistical and preparatory adjustments. FIFA officials briefly considered moving the kickoff time from 6 p.m. to 12 p.m. local time due to weather concerns, but reversed the decision after objections from both national teams.
Earlier in the week, the England team delayed their travel to Mexico City, citing concerns over potential spying. They opted to remain at their base camp in Kansas City until Friday to maintain the privacy of their training preparations.
Mexico's progress to the Round of 16 marks a significant achievement, as the team had not advanced beyond this stage of the FIFA tournament since 1986, when they reached the quarterfinals. Tuesday's win was their first knockout stage victory in the tournament since that same year.