"We're 107 days out from the tournament but, more importantly, we're about 70-something days out from starting to build the Fan Fest. These decisions have to be made. Without receiving this money, it could be catastrophic for our planning and co-ordination."
"Officials at a House Homeland Security Committee hearing said the freezing of funds and a lack of co-ordination between local entities and the federal government are two of the main reasons why security preparations are behind schedule."
"FEMA launched a Fifa World Cup grant programme in November intended to provide $625m to host cities to carry out the extensive security activities required to protect players, staff, attendees, venues and critical infrastructure across the host cities, strengthening them against potential terrorist attacks."
The 2026 FIFA World Cup, co-hosted by the US, Canada, and Mexico, faces significant security challenges due to frozen federal funding. Nearly $900 million designated for 11 US host cities remains unfunded during a partial government shutdown. Officials warn this funding freeze and poor coordination between local and federal entities have delayed security preparations. Miami's host committee chief stated the city needs $70 million by March's end or may cancel events. FEMA established a grant program providing $625 million for security activities, later increased by $250 million for drone detection capabilities. The tournament begins June 11, with the US's first match scheduled for June 13 in Los Angeles.
#world-cup-2026-security #federal-funding-freeze #homeland-security #event-planning #infrastructure-protection
Read at www.bbc.com
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