“Security concerns at the 2026 World Cup after funding freeze.”

The security crisis surrounding the 2026 World Cup is becoming an alarming issue, with warnings that the consequences could be “catastrophic” if funding for the host cities is not unlocked. With nearly $900 million (around €666 million) held up due to a partial shutdown of the federal government of the United States, authorities are on high alert, and the countdown to the tournament is accelerating critical decisions.

During a hearing in the House Homeland Security Committee, it was revealed that the lack of coordination between local entities and the federal government, along with the freezing of funds, is delaying security preparations. Ray Martinez, operations director of the World Cup Organizing Committee in Miami, expressed serious concerns: “We are 107 days from the tournament, but more importantly, about 70 days from the start of construction for the Fan Fest. These decisions need to be made. Without receiving this money, it could be catastrophic for our planning and coordination.”

The World Cup, which will also feature participation from Canada and Mexico, is set to begin on June 11, with the first match of the U.S. national team against Paraguay in Los Angeles on June 13. The cities hosting the matches in the United States include Atlanta, Boston, Dallas, Houston, Los Angeles, Kansas City, Miami, New York/New Jersey, Philadelphia, San Francisco, and Seattle.

The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) grant program, part of the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), was launched in November with the aim of providing $625 million (€462 million) to the host cities to ensure necessary security, protecting players, staff, spectators, infrastructure, and critical locations against potential terrorist attacks. In December, that amount was increased by $250 million (€185 million) to enhance the capacity to detect and mitigate drones.

Meanwhile, the situation is critical. Kansas City Police Chief Joseph Mabin has warned that his team does not have enough personnel to meet the city’s security needs. Gillette Stadium in Foxborough, Boston, which will host seven matches, is facing a similar situation, with local authorities considering withdrawing from hosting games unless funding is secured.

The teams will be in action in various cities, with England facing Croatia in Dallas on June 17, Ghana playing in Boston on June 23, and Panama competing in New York on June 27. Scotland will also have a busy schedule, taking on Haiti and Morocco in Boston on June 14 and 19, respectively, before facing Brazil in Miami on June 24.

As the tournament date rapidly approaches, the pressure on authorities to unlock funding and ensure the necessary security and logistics is increasing exponentially. Uncertainty creates an atmosphere of apprehension, and time is running out for host cities to present a solid plan that guarantees the safety of everyone involved.