FBI Director Kash Patel outlined several security concerns related to the upcoming World Cup, including cyber threats, drone usage, and the risk of lone-wolf attacks. The tournament is expected to attract approximately three million visitors across North America, with 78 matches hosted in the U.S. and the remainder in Canada and Mexico. In preparation, host countries are enhancing security measures across 11 U.S. cities.
Patel emphasized the importance of community engagement in identifying potential threats, stating, "It's everything from traditional cop work going out to the streets, talking to communities..." The FBI has established a special operations center to centralize data on possible threats, particularly from cyber actors who may target infrastructure.
In addition to nation-state threats from countries like China and Russia, Patel noted that lone-wolf actors pose a significant risk. Law enforcement agencies are focusing on preventing online radicalization and monitoring chat groups for signs of potential violence.
Drones also present a security challenge, as they can be operated remotely and vary in size. The FBI is training local law enforcement on drone management and has developed technology to disable problematic drones mid-flight. Patel also highlighted a rise in antisemitic violence, referencing a recent attack at a Michigan synagogue. Since the beginning of the Trump administration, the FBI has arrested over 45,000 violent offenders and has successfully tracked down several high-profile fugitives.