The Federal Emergency Management Agency has unveiled over $1.1 billion in federal funding to enhance security for the 2026 FIFA World Cup and address illegal drone threats. This includes $625 million specifically for host cities through the FIFA World Cup Grant Program. The initiative aims to ensure the tournament, expected to be the largest sporting event in history, is also the safest.
In a major push for event security, the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) announced more than $1.1 billion in new federal funding on November 3, 2025, targeting preparations for the 2026 FIFA World Cup and countermeasures against unlawful drone activity nationwide.
The funding splits into two key programs outlined in FEMA's Fiscal Year 2026 Notices of Funding Opportunity. The FIFA World Cup Grant Program allocates $625 million to the 11 U.S. cities set to host tournament matches. These funds will support local governments in improving safety measures, including training programs, cybersecurity enhancements, staff background checks, and bolstering law enforcement and emergency response at venues, hotels, and transportation hubs.
A FEMA spokesperson emphasized the priority of public safety, stating, “Nothing is more important to President Trump than protecting the American people. The 2026 FIFA World Cup is expected to be the largest sporting event in history, so it must also be the safest.”
Complementing this, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), which oversees FEMA, is working with state and local officials to mitigate threats such as terrorism and criminal drone operations that could impact the international event.
The Counter-Unmanned Aircraft Systems (C-UAS) Grant Program provides $500 million over two fiscal years to build detection and response capabilities against illegal drones. For 2026, $250 million targets nine states and the National Capital Region involved in World Cup matches or America 250 celebrations. The balance will extend to all 56 states and territories in 2027, expanding national drone monitoring and neutralization efforts.
Both programs stem from the One Big Beautiful Bill Act of 2025, signed into law by President Trump in July. Applications opened on October 28, 2025, and will close on December 5, 2025.