The 1986 FIFA World Cup in Mexico was a vibrant celebration of football and Mexican culture, yet it unfolded in a complex backdrop where the influence of cartels was beginning to cast a shadow over the nation. Amidst the rich heritage and colorful festivities, the tournament became a global spectacle, highlighted by Diego Maradona's "Hand of God" goal. While football thrived, the growing power of the cartels was an undercurrent that would shape Mexico’s future, making the 1986 World Cup a poignant blend of sport, culture, and the darker realities of the time.