A group of robot dogs will be deployed to support Mexican police in tackling crime during the 2026 World Cup, authorities announced on Monday, February 10.
The four-legged machines are designed to enter high-risk areas and transmit live video to security teams, allowing officers to assess situations before moving in during the tournament.
The World Cup, scheduled to run from June 11 to July 19, will be co-hosted by Mexico, the United States, and Canada.
The robotic units were purchased for 2.5 million pesos (about S$183,865) by the city council of Guadalupe, part of the Monterrey metropolitan area, which is set to host one of the tournament’s venues.
Footage released by local authorities shows one of the robots navigating an abandoned building and climbing stairs, albeit with some difficulty, while streaming live images to police officers following closely behind.
In a demonstration, the robot confronted an armed suspect and instructed him to drop his weapon through a built-in loudspeaker.
Guadalupe mayor Hector Garcia said the robot dogs are intended to assist officers during initial interventions and help protect their physical safety. He added that they would be deployed in the event of any disturbance.
BBVA Stadium, which will be renamed Estadio Monterrey for the tournament, is expected to host four World Cup matches.
