FEMA Invests Nearly $900 Million to Keep Fans Safe at FIFA World Cup 2026

National News - The FIFA World Cup is coming to the United States this summer, and federal agencies are saying the country is ready. FEMA has spent more than a year working alongside federal, state, local, and private sector partners to make sure millions of fans can attend matches safely.

The tournament runs from June 12 through July 19 across 11 host cities. It is being called the largest sporting event in the world.

FEMA has poured nearly $900 million into preparations. That money is going to host cities to help protect players, fans, venues, and critical infrastructure. A big part of that funding is also aimed at keeping dangerous drones away from events.

Of that total, $625 million is going through the FIFA World Cup Grant Program. State and local law enforcement agencies will use those funds to increase police presence at venues, hotels, and transportation hubs, and to run training and readiness exercises.

Another $250 million is coming through a separate program focused on drones. That money will help host cities detect, track, and stop drone threats near sensitive areas during the matches.

Secretary of Homeland Security Markwayne Mullin spoke about the partnership between government and the private sector. "The federal government is fully prepared to make this tournament a success, but we couldn't do it without the expertise, experience and resources of our private industry partners, and state and local government partners," he said.

Karen S. Evans, who is serving as FEMA's top official, highlighted the role of community partners. "These partners are the anchors of community resilience every day, both on gray-sky days and on game days," Evans said.

Andrew Giuliani, Executive Director of the White House Task Force, noted what is at stake for the country. "This is an opportunity to show the world what the United States can achieve during our nation's 250th birthday," he said. The final match is set for July 19 in New Jersey.

To prepare emergency responders, FEMA has supported training events with more than 238,000 emergency managers and first responders from host cities. Those trainings covered topics like large venue management, emergency response coordination, and mass casualty events.

If you plan to attend a World Cup match this summer, there are a few things worth knowing before you go.

Check venue rules before heading out. Bag restrictions and prohibited items are common at large events, and airport-style security with metal detectors will be in place at stadiums.

Stay hydrated, especially in summer heat. Signs of heatstroke include red, hot, and dry skin with no sweat, a rapid pulse, dizziness, confusion, and a body temperature above 103 degrees Fahrenheit.

Know where exits, medical tents, and security staff are located when you arrive. Have a plan for where you would go if something happened.

If you notice anything that does not seem right, report it. That includes unattended bags, someone acting suspiciously, or any threatening messages seen in person or online. FEMA encourages fans to say something if they see something.

Travelers visiting a new city can download the free FEMA app to receive emergency alerts for the areas they are visiting. Using official ride-share services instead of random taxis is also recommended to avoid scams.

The World Cup this summer is a major event for the country, and officials say the groundwork has been laid to make it a safe one for everyone who attends.