FBI Director Kash Patel announced Thursday that 59 regional Homeland Security Task Forces stand ready to help secure the 2026 FIFA World Cup, bringing together law enforcement at every level for real-time intelligence sharing.
The task forces, created by an executive order from President Trump in January 2025, have already made their mark in the fight against crime across the country.
Patel said they have boosted cooperation between federal, state, and local agencies, leading to major disruptions of drug cartels, foreign gangs, and transnational criminal groups.
“These HSTFs have been huge force multipliers in crushing crime through historic interagency collaboration,” Patel wrote on X, May 21.
The groups have targeted drug and weapons trafficking, human smuggling, and other cross-border threats that endanger American communities.
First Match of the 2026 FIFA World Cup
The FIFA World Cup kicks off in June across the United States, Canada, and Mexico. The U.S. will host most of the matches in 11 cities.
The first match of the 2026 FIFA World Cup begins on Thursday, June 11, 2026, between the host nation, Mexico, and South Africa.
This highly anticipated inaugural game will take place at the iconic Estadio Azteca in Mexico City.
Millions of fans, players, and visitors are expected, creating a complex security challenge that requires tight coordination.
Patel stressed that the task forces will work hand in hand with local police, state authorities, federal partners, and international agencies. The goal is to spot threats early and respond fast.
“The coordination we’ve built since will be critical working in tandem with local, state, federal, and international officials to share intelligence in real time and deploy tactics to help ensure a safe, enjoyable tournament for all,” he said.
Security planners have spent months preparing for large crowds, potential protests, cyber risks, and other threats associated with any major global event.
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The task forces provide investigators with a ready network for moving information quickly across borders and jurisdictions.
The 2025 executive order directed the Justice Department and the Department of Homeland Security to establish these units in states nationwide.
Their main mission was to dismantle criminal organizations operating across borders, with a heavy focus on cartels and smuggling networks.
Officials say task forces have embedded federal agents with local partners, improved the flow of intelligence, and helped shut down funding streams for violent groups.
Patel has said the approach works, citing falling crime numbers in some areas.
For the World Cup, the focus shifts to protecting stadiums, fan zones, airports, and transportation routes.
Officials have also highlighted drone threats, with training programs already underway for state and local police.
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The FBI is urging the public to stay alert and report suspicious items and activities.
“If you see something, say something,” the agency says. Anyone with information about suspicious activity can contact the FBI at 1-800-CALL-FBI or submit tips online.
Host cities have received federal grants to help cover police overtime, equipment, and emergency planning costs.
Coordination also includes Customs and Border Protection, the Secret Service, and other agencies.
Patel, who took over as FBI director earlier this year, has made strengthening partnerships with local law enforcement a priority.
He has visited field offices and met with governors to expand the task force model.
FBI noted that the emphasis is on prevention, where intelligence sharing will cover everything from ticket scalping rings to potential terrorist threats or organized crime looking to exploit the crowds.
Traditionally, the World Cup brings economic benefits to host cities, but safety remains the top concern. Officials want fans from around the world to enjoy the games without fear.
