Second Diving World Cup Stage Called Off
World Aquatics has canceled the second stage of the Diving World Cup, which was scheduled for March 5–8 in Mexico. The decision follows a risk assessment prompted by widespread civil unrest in the country after the killing of a major drug cartel leader. The cancellation of this event, a key qualifier for the World Cup Super Final in Beijing, means that qualification will now be determined at the stage in Montreal instead. This move highlights the significant challenges of organizing major sporting events in regions experiencing instability.
Reasons for the Cancellation
The Montreal stage is planned for February 26 to March 2, 2026. The cancellation is directly linked to violent disturbances that erupted across Mexico following the death of Nemesio Oseguera Cervantes (known as 'El Mencho'), leader of the Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG). Oseguera was killed on February 22 in Tapalpa, Jalisco, triggering mass unrest that spread to at least five regions. A state of emergency was declared in Jalisco state.
World Aquatics stated that the safety of all participants is its paramount concern. 'This decision follows a thorough risk assessment of the situation in Zapopan and the state of Jalisco, which carefully analyzed the current level of public security,' read a statement from the organization's press service. It is known that the United States provided additional information for the security operation. The unrest involved car burnings, road blockades, and clashes with security forces.
The cancellation underscores the critical importance of safety in hosting international sporting events, particularly in areas with high levels of criminal violence. The shift of the qualifying event to Montreal also demonstrates the need for flexible contingency planning when unforeseen circumstances threaten the well-being of athletes and spectators.