US cities preparing to host the 2026 FIFA World Cup are voicing serious concerns about potential catastrophic security problems as the tournament approaches, citing a freeze on federal funding and a lack of coordination between local and federal agencies.

Funding Freeze Creates Urgent Crisis

Representatives from host cities testified before the House Homeland Security Committee on Tuesday, outlining the challenges they face with just over 100 days remaining before the opening matches. The core of the issue stems from a freeze on funds allocated by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA).

The federal government had previously earmarked $625 million for the 11 US host cities to enhance security and preparedness and an additional $250 million to strengthen their ability to detect, identify, track, or mitigate drone threats, according to FEMA.

This funding is now unavailable due to a partial government shutdown, with FEMA scaling back operations to bare-minimum, life-saving operations.

Coordination Challenges Add to Concerns

Beyond the funding issues, witnesses highlighted a lack of adequate coordination between local agencies and the federal government in planning for transportation, hotels, fan events, practice locations, and stadium security.

Mike Sena, president of the National Fusion Center Association, stated, I feel that if we’d been having this conversation two years ago, we’d be in better shape…but today, as we’re approaching these games, we’re nowhere near the capability we necessitate.

Host Cities Face Hard Decisions

The lack of funding is already forcing host cities to consider drastic measures. Ray Martinez, the COO of the Miami World Cup Host Committee, warned that organizers may have to begin cancelling events, starting with the Fan Fest, if they don’t receive $70 million by the end of March. These decisions have to be made. Without receiving this money, it could be catastrophic for our planning and coordination. he said.

Officials in Foxboro, Massachusetts, have even suggested they may pull out of hosting the seven matches scheduled for Gillette Stadium if funding doesn’t materialize.

Joseph Mabin, Kansas City deputy chief of police, emphasized the need for additional personnel, stating his department currently lacks sufficient staff to cover all security needs.

Tournament Details

The FIFA World Cup will kick off on June 11 in Mexico City, with the first US match taking place on June 12 in Los Angeles. The final will be held on July 19 in New York and New Jersey.

The 11 host cities in the United States are Atlanta, Boston, Dallas, Houston, Kansas City, Los Angeles, Miami, New York/New Jersey, Philadelphia, San Francisco Bay Area and Seattle.