FBI Says 2026 FIFA World Cup Recorded Zero Major Security Incidents in US

WASHINGTON, D.C., United States — The Director of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), Kash Patel, has announced that the United States recorded no major security incidents during the 2026 FIFA World Cup, describing the tournament as the largest sporting event in history.

Patel made the disclosure in a post on his official X account on Sunday, commending the coordinated efforts of federal, state and local law enforcement agencies for ensuring the successful security operation throughout the tournament.

According to the FBI director, the competition shattered previous attendance records and concluded without any major security breach despite being hosted across multiple cities in the United States.

“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 wrote.

Patel Credits Trump for Early Security Planning

Patel credited President Donald Trump with prioritising security preparations well ahead of the tournament, noting that the White House FIFA Task Force was established approximately 16 months before the World Cup kicked off.

He said the early planning enabled security agencies to coordinate effectively and deliver a safe environment for players, officials and supporters.

“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,” Patel said.

FBI Deploys Record 5,000 Personnel

The FBI director disclosed that the bureau deployed nearly 5,000 personnel from its headquarters, field offices and international offices across the 16 host cities, describing it as the agency’s largest deployment for a single event.

He said the operation was made possible through collaboration with federal, state and local law enforcement partners.

“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,” Patel stated.

More Than 700 Drones Seized Around FIFA Venues

Patel revealed that the FBI established a Joint Operations Centre, an International Police Coordination Centre and an Intelligence Coordination Centre to facilitate real-time intelligence gathering and information sharing throughout the tournament.

He also disclosed that the bureau launched its first-ever counter-unmanned aircraft systems (counter-UAS) training school for law enforcement officers ahead of the competition.

According to Patel, authorities intercepted and seized more than 700 drones that entered restricted airspace around FIFA venues during the tournament.

“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,” he said.

Security Agencies Managed Multiple National Events

Patel noted that security agencies successfully handled several other major national events held during the same period, including UFC 250, SAIL 250 and State Fair 250, while maintaining robust security for the World Cup.

He thanked the FBI’s federal, state and local partners, FIFA, the Department of Homeland Security and the White House FIFA Task Force for their contributions to the operation.

“President Trump’s leadership set the course; he led the way, and this FBI and our partners rose to the challenge. Thanks to all our partners, FIFA, the Department of Homeland Security, the White House FIFA Task Force and its Director, Andrew Giuliani,” Patel said.

Also read: NDC Finalises Appeal Strategy as Obi, Dickson Rally Leaders After Court Registration Setback

admin

A Lagos-based journalist with a passion for disseminating factual information and a deep appreciation for good music, good food, movies, and beautiful cars. He hopes to travel the world someday, documenting its beauty and diverse cultures through his storytelling.