WASHINGTON
The head of the White House’s FIFA World Cup 2026 Task Force said Wednesday that the US is advancing broad security and hospitality plans to ensure the tournament — the largest in FIFA history — is secure, smooth, and welcoming for millions of fans.
Andrew Giuliani emphasized that preparations strike a balance between firm security measures and positive fan experience.
“We are fully committed to delivering a safe and successful World Cup,” he told international reporters at the State Department’s Foreign Press Center. “Security and hospitality can absolutely coexist — this tournament will prove that.”
Giuliani also addressed concerns about international spectators, noting that US agencies will apply a “zero-tolerance policy” toward unauthorized drone activity near venues.
On visa procedures, he highlighted improved processing in key countries, including Türkiye — where waiting times have dropped significantly thanks to expanded staffing. A dedicated “FIFA Priority Appointment Scheduling System” (PASS) will launch in early 2026 to help ticket holders secure visa appointments quickly.
“The president’s message is clear: Come to the United States legally and enjoy the games,” Giuliani said, adding that anyone deemed a threat would not be admitted.
Federal coordination teams have already been deployed across the 11 US host cities to unify local and federal operations ahead of an expected 5–7 million foreign visitors.
Next year’s World Cup will be jointly hosted by the US, Canada and Mexico — marking the first tri-nation FIFA World Cup in history.
Author: Tuğçe Nur Kaya
Source: NewstimeHub
