US recorded zero major security incidents during World Cup - FBI

The United States hosted the 2026 FIFA World Cup, the largest sporting event ever staged, without recording any major security incidents. FBI Director Kash Patel credited the success to the extensive and coordinated efforts of federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies.

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The 2026 FIFA World Cup was the largest sporting event in the history of the world, shattering the previous attendance record by double digits. America, we got it done, ZERO major security incidents across our nation while we hosted the equivalent of 78 Super Bowls in 38 days, along with 40 base camps, endless fan zones, and celebrations in nearly every state.

Patel described the tournament as shattering previous attendance records, noting that it was successfully managed across the United States. He highlighted the scale of the event, comparing it to hosting "78 Super Bowls in 38 days" with numerous fan zones and celebrations nationwide. The FBI's commitment involved nearly 5,000 personnel deployed from its headquarters, field offices, and international posts across all 16 host cities, marking the bureau's largest-ever deployment for a single event.

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President Trump promised his administration would deliver the safest, most secure, and fun environment for FIFA. He started by establishing the White House FIFA Task Force some 16 months ago, and we got right to work.

Preparations for security began approximately 16 months prior to the tournament, with the establishment of the White House FIFA Task Force under President Trump's directive. The FBI led the charge, working collaboratively with partners to ensure a safe and secure environment.

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This FBI led the charge, dedicating nearly 5,000 personnel to the effort out of HQ, field and international offices across 16 host cities. None of what we accomplished is possible without our federal, state and local partners who all put in the same relentless effort. It’s the largest resource dedication the FBI has EVER made for any event.

To facilitate real-time intelligence and information sharing, the FBI established a Joint Operations Center, an International Police Coordination Centre, and an Intelligence Coordination Centre. Furthermore, the agency created the first-ever counter-unmanned aircraft systems training school for law enforcement officers, leading to the seizure of over 700 drones that entered restricted airspace around FIFA venues.

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We established the first-ever counter-UAS drone school, training members of law enforcement from across the country for the World Cup. We seized over 700 drones near FIFA airspace.