The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has awarded $625 million to the 11 cities hosting FIFA World Cup 2026 matches to bolster security in preparation for the tournament.
Host cities will use the FIFA World Cup Grant Program funding to hold operational exercises, conduct staff background checks and strengthen cybersecurity defenses. Recipients can also use funds to pay for increased police and emergency response at FIFA venues, hotels and transportation hubs.
The 11 cities are: Atlanta, Boston, Dallas, Houston, Kansas City, Los Angeles, Miami, the New York–New Jersey metropolitan area, Philadelphia, the San Francisco Bay Area and Seattle.
FEMA also recently awarded $250 million to the states hosting FIFA World Cup 2026 through the Counter Unmanned Aircraft Systems (C-UAS) Grant Program to protect the skies by improving drone detection and response capabilities.
Of the cities receiving money as part of the World Cup grant program, Miami received the largest allocation of funds at $73.7 million.
The city plans to use the grants for funding security, public safety and operational needs for seven matches at Hard Rock Stadium. A significant portion of the funding has been earmarked to build and secure the Fan Fest at Bayfront Park, which includes a main stage with screens, drones, security fencing, and waterfront displays.
Atlanta received the second largest allocation at $73.3 million. Funding uses in Atlanta include crowd control measures that include new bollards, safety infrastructure and surveillance tools at key sites, such as the Five Points MARTA Station.
Photo by Pixabay
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