Even Luis Miguel isn't Safe From Sinaloa Cartel Violence—Culiacán Concert Canceled

Luis Miguel's highly anticipated concert in Culiacán, the capital of the Mexican state of Sinaloa, scheduled for September 27, 2024, has been officially canceled due to the escalating violence in the region.

The event, set to take place at Estadio Dorados, was part of his world-renowned tour, which the so called Sol de México started last year.

The concert was announced over six months ago. However, safety concerns caused by a fierce turf war between rival factions of the Sinaloa Cartel—Los Chapitos and La Mayiza,the faction led by the son of Ismael "El Mayo" Zambada—"have made it unsafe for both the artist and attendees," explained the promoters, according to Radio Fórmula.

What is happening in Culiacán?

The capital of Sinaloa has become a battleground as the two cartel factions vie for dominance. The situation between them erupted after the capture of Joaquín "El Chapo" Guzmán, who founded the Cartel with El Mayo.

His children, known as Los Chapitos, fought for control with El Mayo until the drug lord was arrested in August. Since then, he has been under U.S. custody.

In recent weeks, the violence has surged, leaving over 80 people dead and dozens more missing within a span of just 16 days, according to data provided by Mexican media. The confrontations have paralyzed the city, with burned vehicles, shootings, and armed blockades being reported across multiple areas.

The escalating conflict has not only disrupted daily life but also forced the cancellation of various cultural and civic events, including the Mexican Independence Day celebrations on September 15. Authorities feared that large public gatherings, such as the Luis Miguel concert, could become targets in the ongoing violence​-

The uncertainty surrounding the conflict has left organizers unable to confirm if the concert will be rescheduled at a later date.

Fans react

This cancellation is a significant blow for Luis Miguel fans in Culiacán. The singer, widely regarded as one of the most successful Latin artists of all time, has been breaking records with his tour, drawing massive crowds across the world.

The weekend show in Mazatlán, another important city in the state of Sinaloa, is still on the schedule.