‘It is making me very nervous’

President of the Jamaica Football Federation (JFF) Michael Ricketts said his organisation is closely monitoring the volatile situation in Mexico ahead of the Reggae Boyz’s scheduled international matches there next month.

Violence erupted on Sunday after the powerful Jalisco New Generation Cartel reportedly unleashed coordinated attacks across several areas following a military operation in which its leader, Nemesio Oseguera, was killed. Authorities report that at least 62 people have died, with roads blocked and buildings set ablaze amid the unrest.

The Reggae Boyz are down to play their matches at Estadio Akron in Guadalajara and Estadio BBVA in Monterrey on March 23 and 31.

Jamaica are slated to face New Caledonia on March 23, with the winner advancing to meet DR Congo in a decisive contest for qualification to this year’s World Cup tournament.

Ricketts said that the developments have created unease within the federation as they await direction from world and regional governing bodies, including FIFA and Concacaf.

“We are very concerned about the situation over there in Mexico, and right now I am nervous,” said Ricketts.

“What is happening now could certainly negatively impact the visit of the four teams that will participate; but obviously, we are waiting on FIFA to make a determination because we don’t know how long this is going to last.”

“The games are at the end of March, so we still have another month to see what happens; but it is making me very nervous, to be honest. We will be listening out for Concacaf and FIFA to give us instructions [on] whether they are playing the games or whether they are immediately looking for other options.”

Ricketts noted that while contingency discussions are expected, the JFF has not yet received any formal communication regarding changes to the schedule or venue.

“I am sure they will be looking at other options as we speak, but we haven’t gotten an official communication from them as yet. We are waiting patiently, and hopeful that there will be some kind of instructions pretty soon, but it is worrying,” he said.

The JFF boss pointed out that internal consultations will continue once the technical staff return to the island, after which the federation will engage regional authorities before holding further talks with FIFA.

Despite the uncertainty, Ricketts emphasised the importance of the matches to Jamaica’s World Cup ambitions.

“These games are very crucial for us. It is very unfortunate that we have given ourselves the most difficult route to get to the World Cup, but we are working on it and we are very optimistic and hopeful,” he said.