With the opening of the 2026 FIFA World Cup in North America approaching, U.S. authorities including the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) are ramping up preparations. They are drawing up comprehensive security measures that account not only for terrorism and cybercrime but also for the possibility of human trafficking.
According to Sports Business Journal (SBJ) on the 31st of last month, security control zones will be set up around each stadium in the United States during the World Cup. Spectators without tickets will be advised to refrain from visiting the stadiums and instead use official fan event venues. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) will also implement temporary flight restrictions over the airspace of all World Cup host stadiums.
The FBI is warning that cyber scams targeting World Cup ticket buyers are likely to continue. The agency is also preparing response plans for potential violence, bomb threats, and false online reports.
The FBI is paying particular attention to the possibility of human trafficking crimes. In a recent briefing, Marlo Graham, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI Atlanta Field Office, said, "A large security presence will be deployed at the stadiums and surrounding downtown areas during the World Cup," adding, "We are thoroughly preparing for various crimes and safety threats."
The 2026 North American World Cup will open on the 11th of this month, local time, and run through July 19 across three countries: the United States, Canada, and Mexico. In the U.S., 11 cities including New York/New Jersey, Los Angeles, Dallas, and Atlanta have been selected as host cities, with the final to be held at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey.
