Daijiworld Media Network - Washington
Washington, Dec 4: The White House has declared that the United States is fully ready to host what it calls the largest sporting event in history—the FIFA Men’s World Cup 2026—promising unparalleled safety, hospitality and seamless logistics for millions of fans arriving from around the world.
Andrew Giuliani, executive director of the White House Task Force on the World Cup, said at an international media briefing on Wednesday that President Donald Trump has given a clear directive: deliver a “safe, welcoming, and memorable” tournament. Giuliani described the preparations as “the largest whole-of-government sporting event operation ever undertaken in the United States.”
The 2026 World Cup will coincide with America’s 250th Independence anniversary, including a July 4 match in Philadelphia. Giuliani said the event offers the chance to showcase American hospitality, innovation and national spirit as the country prepares for “48 countries, 104 matches, 49 team base camps and up to 7 million international visitors.”
He noted major economic gains expected across the 11 US host cities—from tourism and hospitality to infrastructure and small businesses—calling the tournament “a global moment for unity.”
Giuliani highlighted sweeping preparations across security, intelligence, transportation and travel systems. Federal coordination teams are deployed in every host city to streamline planning and ensure a consistent nationwide approach.
Security, he emphasised, is the top priority. More than USD 1 billion in federal funding has been allocated, including USD 625 million for law enforcement and emergency response, and USD 500 million dedicated to countering unlawful drones. The FBI and Department of Homeland Security are establishing an international police coordination centre, while new forecasting tools from the National Weather Service are being readied to handle extreme heat risks.
To handle an unprecedented influx of visitors, the US has modernised screening systems, expanded eGate verification, and coordinated closely with airlines, rail networks, rideshare companies and local transit systems. Visa processing has also been accelerated: over 450 additional consular staff have been deployed worldwide, with more than 300,000 extra visas already issued. Giuliani said that over 80 per cent of countries now face visa wait times under 60 days.
Pressed on immigration enforcement, Giuliani stressed that security vetting remains strict, describing “every visa decision” as a national security matter, while assuring that lawful visitors will enjoy a “truly unforgettable experience.” Exemptions remain in place for World Cup teams and essential support personnel from restricted countries.
Security perimeters around stadiums have been redesigned using a Super Bowl–style model with layered screenings and designated areas for fans without tickets. Giuliani emphasised that the 2026 tournament is vastly different from the 1994 edition due to its three-country hosting structure, expanded format, and heightened global security environment.
The tournament draw will be held on December 5 as preparations enter their final phase for what the administration aims to make the safest and most spectacular World Cup ever hosted by the United States.