Mexican president urges responsible World Cup celebrations following deaths after last win

She calls on supporters to celebrate safely and avoid overcrowded areas

Football - FIFA World Cup 2026 - Round of 32 - Mexico v Ecuador - Fans gather in Aurora - Aurora, Illinois, US - Jun 30, 2026 A Mexico fan celebrates waving the national flag after the match, at Rivers Edge Park in Aurora IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters/Talia Sprague

Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum on Friday urged fans to avoid heavy drinking and steer clear of packed gathering spots if the national team beats England on Sunday in the World Cup round of 16, after celebrations following Mexico's last victory left at least four people dead in the capital.

The deaths occurred near Mexico City's central Paseo de la Reforma, where about one million people gathered to celebrate Mexico's 2-0 win over Ecuador in the previous round.

"We must avoid alcohol abuse, because whenever there is excessive drinking at these kinds of celebrations, problems can arise, including more violence linked to alcohol," Sheinbaum said at her regular morning press conference.

She also called on supporters to avoid overcrowded areas, saying fans and authorities alike share responsibility for ensuring celebrations remain safe.

Three of the victims in the capital - a 44-year-old man and two women, aged 19 and 48 - died of suffocation after being crushed in the crowd, authorities said.