WASHINGTON, United States – The Director of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Kash Patel, announced on Sunday, July 19, 2026 that the United States recorded no major security incidents during the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Okay News reports that Patel credited President Donald Trump for prioritizing security preparations and establishing the White House FIFA Task Force approximately 16 months before the competition.
“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.
The FBI committed nearly 5,000 personnel from its headquarters, field offices, and international branches across 16 host cities. Authorities established a Joint Operations Centre, an International Police Coordination Centre, and an Intelligence Coordination Centre for real-time information sharing.
“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 said.
The agency created a counter-unmanned aircraft systems training school for law enforcement officers ahead of the tournament and seized over 700 drones near airspace designated for the events.
“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,” Patel said.
Security agencies simultaneously managed other national events during the tournament, including UFC 250, SAIL 250, and State Fair 250. Patel acknowledged the contributions of FIFA, the Department of Homeland Security, and White House FIFA Task Force Director Andrew Giuliani.
