Host cities across the United States, Canada, and Mexico are raising red flags over security preparations for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. With the tournament set to kick off on June 11, officials warn that planning is lagging far behind schedule, potentially leading to major disruptions for the global spectacle.
In testimony before the United States House Homeland Security Committee, local representatives highlighted critical shortcomings. Federal security funding has been frozen, and coordination between federal and local authorities remains woefully inadequate. The freeze stems from the Federal Emergency Management Agency’s decision to scale back operations during a government shutdown, prioritizing only life-saving efforts.
Reports indicate that nearly $900 million earmarked for World Cup security has been withheld. This includes $625 million intended for host cities to manage large-scale protection for players, fans, and infrastructure. An additional $250 million was allocated to enhance drone surveillance and counter-drone capabilities in host states.
Mike Sena, president of the National Fusion Center Association, told lawmakers that the delays are creating havoc. ‘If we were having this conversation two years ago, we’d be in a much better position,’ Sena said. ‘But today, as we’re getting closer to these games, we’re not even close to the capacity we need.’
In Miami, organizers are already feeling the pinch. Ray Martinez, CEO of the Miami World Cup Host Committee, warned that funding uncertainty is derailing plans. ‘We have 107 days until the tournament, but more critically, only about 70 days to start building the Fan Fest,’ he stated. Miami has applied for $70 million in federal aid, and without approval by late March, events will face cuts.
Foxboro, Massachusetts, officials in Foxboro suggested they might withdraw from hosting seven matches at Gillette Stadium if funding doesn’t resume. In Kansas City, Deputy Police Chief Joseph Mabyn testified about severe staffing shortages, emphasizing the need for federal assistance in hiring.
This expanded 48-team tournament will span North America, with opening matches in Mexico on June 11, followed by the U.S. debut in Los Angeles the next day. Australia will launch its campaign in Vancouver before facing the U.S. in Seattle on June 20 and wrapping group stage against Paraguay at Levi’s Stadium on June 26.
As the clock ticks down, unresolved funding and coordination issues threaten to turn the world’s biggest football event into a logistical nightmare. Authorities urge swift action to avert a security crisis.