WASHINGTON, D.C. June 10, 2026 — With the expanded 2026 FIFA World Cup set to begin tomorrow, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) is ramping up efforts to secure one of the largest sporting events in U.S. history, promising to showcase the nation’s hospitality while prioritizing public safety.
In a statement shared by the White House on X, DHS Secretary Markwayne Mullin emphasized readiness: “DHS is ready to show the BEST of America by keeping everyone safe across the country as the World Cup hits American soil.”
The tournament, co-hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico, features a record 48 teams and 104 matches total, with 78 games across 11 U.S. cities over roughly 38–40 days. Organizers expect 5–7 million international visitors, an influx compared by Mullin to “78 Super Bowls in 38 days.”
In a recent address, Mullin highlighted the scale: “It is a huge task, but DHS is up to this… We have 78 Super Bowls, in 38 days, in 11 cities… we’re going to have 5-7 million visitors. We’re going to show the best of America.”
The massive operation involves coordination among more than 400 law enforcement agencies, federal partners, and private security. U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) is implementing streamlined yet rigorous processes for athletes, officials, and fans, including enhanced screenings at ports of entry.
Preparations faced hurdles from a recent 76-day federal funding lapse, which Mullin said limited proactive measures. Speaking in Kansas City in May, he noted the department “can still deliver” despite the delays.
Security concerns include geopolitical tensions, potential protests, cyber threats, and crowd management across host cities like Los Angeles, New York/New Jersey, Miami, and Kansas City. Officials have also addressed visa processing challenges for participants from certain countries amid stricter immigration policies.
The White House FIFA World Cup Task Force, led by Executive Director Andrew Giuliani, has focused on interagency coordination, funding for host cities, and counter-drone measures to ensure a safe and successful event timed near America’s 250th anniversary.
As the opening matches approach — with the first U.S. game in Los Angeles on June 12 — federal, state, and local authorities say they are “leaning in” to make the tournament both secure and memorable.
Mullin and DHS aim to balance robust enforcement with a warm welcome, positioning the World Cup as a platform to highlight American excellence on the global stage.
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