Local and national officials are worried about how the ongoing partial government shutdown in the U.S. could impact the planning for the 2026 World Cup, which is just over 100 days away. During a recent House committee hearing on homeland security, representatives from cities like Miami, Kansas City, and New Jersey expressed frustration over delays in federal funding.
Back in July, federal lawmakers promised $625 million to help with security for the tournament. This funding is critical, especially since these cities will host 21 matches, including the final. Communities are planning events like fan festivals, which also rely on this financial support.
Nellie Pou, a representative from New Jersey, highlighted the urgency, saying, “With only four months to go, these cities still report they have not received this funding. This is completely unacceptable.”
The current government shutdown mainly affects the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), which plays a key role in securing these events. The funding issues arose after lawmakers couldn’t agree on a DHS appropriations bill, causing a freeze on several essential agencies like FEMA and the TSA.
According to Raymond Martinez from Miami, the city applied for $70 million in grants. He warned, “We are 107 days out from the tournament.” The preparations for the fan fest need decisions made within the next month, or it could derail the planning.
Kansas City’s deputy police chief, Joseph Mabin, echoed these concerns. The city, set to host six matches, expects around 650,000 visitors. Mabin emphasized, “It is absolutely critical that we get this funding. Our fear is that budget limitations will compromise safety.”
Further complicating matters, officials in Foxborough, near Boston, have not received nearly $8 million for security. The town has threatened to withhold FIFA’s license if funding isn’t secured by March 17. That amount is significant since it represents about half of Foxborough’s annual public safety budget.
The stakes are high. The World Cup is anticipated to draw around five million fans to the U.S. alone. As cities gear up for what is expected to be a massive global event, the uncertainty around funding puts extensive events and safety measures at risk, raising concerns about how prepared the U.S. will be on such a significant world stage.
Recent polls show that over 60% of Americans support increased funding for security during major events like the World Cup, reflecting widespread concern about safety during large gatherings.
In summary, without timely federal support, cities may struggle to host a safe and successful World Cup. The pressure is on as communities prepare to welcome millions of fans from around the globe.
For more information on the funding issues surrounding the World Cup, check out this report from The Guardian.
