US ramps up security and airport fan zones for 2026 FIFA World Cup

Federal agencies are preparing for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, which will be staged across 11 U.S. cities. The FBI has trained about 60 police officers in a new counter‑drone program, teaching them how to locate, jam or remotely shut down unauthorized drones that could threaten venues. The Department of Homeland Security will oversee most of the drone‑mitigation efforts, while the FBI will lead the program in three host cities. Officials cite the risk of commercially available drones and lone‑wolf attacks as key security concerns ahead of the tournament.

Airports in the host cities are also being transformed into “World Cup World” hubs. Major hubs such as Atlanta, Boston, Dallas, Kansas City and Miami have installed themed installations, fan zones, live‑game watch parties, interactive soccer experiences, special merchandise displays and even a Guinness World Record attempt for the largest soccer ball in Boston. These enhancements aim to accommodate millions of domestic and international fans traveling to the matches.